What Are Plantation Houses Called

What Are Plantation Houses Called?

Plantation houses, also known as manor houses or plantation homes, are a type of large, historic house that was typically built in the Southern United States. They were originally built by wealthy plantation owners to accommodate their families and staff, and often served as the centerpiece of a large plantation.

Plantation houses vary in style, but many share common features such as large porches, high ceilings, and numerous rooms. They are often built in a classical style, with symmetrical facades and columns. Many plantation houses also have outbuildings, such as kitchens, smokehouses, and barns.

Plantation houses are often named for the plantation on which they are located. For example, the Oak Alley Plantation House is located on the Oak Alley Plantation in Louisiana. Other plantation houses are named for their owners, such as the Thomas Jefferson Monticello Plantation House in Virginia.

Plantation houses are an important part of American history and culture. They represent the rise and fall of the plantation system in the South, and many have been preserved as museums or historical sites.

Common Terms for Plantation Houses

There are a number of common terms used to refer to plantation houses. These include:

Manor house: This term is often used to refer to a large, stately plantation house.
Plantation home: This term is used to refer to a house that is located on a plantation.
Great house: This term is used to refer to the main house on a plantation.
Big house: This term is used to refer to a large, impressive plantation house.

Architectural Styles of Plantation Houses

Plantation houses vary in architectural style, but some of the most common styles include:

Federal style: This style was popular in the early 19th century and is characterized by its simple, symmetrical facades and classical detailing.
Greek Revival style: This style was popular in the mid-19th century and is characterized by its columns, pediments, and other classical features.
Antebellum style: This style was popular in the years leading up to the Civil War and is characterized by its large porches, high ceilings, and numerous rooms.

Preserving Plantation Houses

Many plantation houses have been preserved as museums or historical sites. These houses offer visitors a glimpse into the past and help to tell the story of the plantation system in the American South.

There are a number of organizations that work to preserve plantation houses, including the National Trust for Historic Preservation and the Historic Landmarks Foundation of Louisiana. These organizations provide funding and support to help preserve these important historical structures.