Welcome to the Ferry Place Plantation, a site steeped in history located in the picturesque Catahoula Parish of Louisiana. This plantation, nestled on some of the highest ground in the Sicily Island area, offers a unique glimpse into the past with its rich historical tapestry.
Ferry Place Plantation was first established by the Lovelace family, early settlers of Catahoula Parish. The family’s patriarch, John Lovelace Sr., first claimed the land in 1796, making it one of the earliest settlements in the region. The property’s historical significance is further underscored by John Lovelace’s confirmative act of 1811, which documented the family’s settlement and cultivation activities as early as 1803.
Over the years, Ferry Place has witnessed significant historical events and transformations. In the 19th century, it became a thriving plantation under the stewardship of John H. Lovelace, a descendant of the original founder. By 1860, the plantation was producing substantial yields, including 220 bales of cotton and 4,000 bushels of corn, showcasing its importance in the local agricultural economy.
Not only a hub for agriculture, Ferry Place was also a home to notable figures such as W. S. Peck Jr., a prominent local politician and businessman in the early 20th century. Florence J. Peck, a descendant of the Lovelace family, and her husband W. S. Peck took ownership of the plantation in the late 19th century, maintaining its legacy through tumultuous times.
Today, the plantation is not only an emblem of the past but also a site of significant archaeological interest, with prehistoric remains hinting at civilizations that predated European settlers in the area. As you explore Ferry Place, imagine the lives of those who walked these grounds before you, from Native American tribes to pioneering families, and the stories they left behind.
Ferry Place Plantation remains a testament to the historical evolution of the region, offering visitors a chance to step back in time and experience the rich heritage of Catahoula Parish.
