Audubon State Historic Site

“The rich magnolias covered with fragrant blossoms, the holly, the beech, the tall yellow poplar, the hilly ground and even the red clay, all excited my admiration. Such an entire change in the fall of nature in so short a time seems almost supernatural, and surrounded once more by numberless warblers and thrushes, I enjoyed the scene.” – John James Audubon, when he arrived at the St. Francisville plantation in 1821

History of the Audubon State Historic Site

Before John James Audubon became associated with the environmental organization, zoo, park, and aquarium and insectarium that each bear his name, he was a wildlife painter with a keen eye for detail. Audubon’s ties to Louisiana date back to 1821, when he was hired to teach painting to the teenage daughter of St. Francisville plantation owners. He spent four months teaching and painting at the house known today as Oakley Plantation, creating 32 of the paintings that were eventually published in his bestselling “Birds of America.” The 100-acre Audubon State Historic Site commemorates the history of the home, and in particular, Audubon’s stay there.

About the Oakley House

Oakley Plantation was built in the early 19th century, in a simple-yet-sophisticated colonial architectural style. Its high ceilings spanning three stories, spacious verandas and entrances to landscaped grounds give visitors a glimpse into the setting that inspired Audubon.

The house is bright and airy, with jalousie galleries (windows with horizontal slats) allowing cross ventilation while keeping out rain and glare from the sun. The detached plantation kitchen was reconstructed on the old foundation and includes a weaving room and a work room. Two cabins that housed the plantation’s enslaved population are a short distance from the back of the house, and find restored formal and kitchen gardens adjacent to the house.

What to Do at the Audubon State Historic Site

Take a guided tour of the home’s 17 rooms, reconstructed kitchen, barn, gardens and slave quarters, all restored to the time period coinciding with Audubon’s residency. After your tour, stop in the gift shop for a souvenir, or listen to the same sounds of nature Audubon himself heard from the vantage point of one of Oakley’s picnic areas.

The site is still a bird watcher’s paradise, home to red-bellied woodpeckers, blue jays, brown thrashers, cardinals and more. Follow one of the walking trails to enjoy the area’s peace and tranquility.

The Audubon State Historic Site hosts several events throughout the month, including history lectures, demonstrations and walking tours.

Other Things to Do in St. Francisville

Near the charming historic city of St. Francisville, check out the Tunica Hills Wildlife Management Area for more birding, as well as hiking and horseback riding. For more history and a delicious meal, visit the famously haunted plantation The Myrtles and its Restaurant 1796.

Discover more things to do in St. Francisville.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the Audubon State Historic Site open?

The Audubon State Historic Site is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The park is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day.

How much is admission to the Audubon State Historic Site?

Admission is $6 per child (4-17), $10 per adult (17-61), $8 per senior citizen (62 and older) and free for children 3 and under.

Grounds-only admission is $5 per person and does not include access to the Oakley House.

Where is the Audubon Historic Site located?

The Audubon Historic Site is an easy exit off Route 61, just a few miles down LA-965, located at 11788 Highway 965 in St. Francisville, Louisiana.

How can I contact the Audubon Historic Site?

Call the Audubon Historic Site at (225) 635-3739 or toll free at (888) 677-2838. Email the park at [email protected], and visit their Facebook page for updates.