A massive fire erupted on May 15, 2025, at the historic Nottoway Plantation in White Castle, Louisiana, causing extensive damage to one of the South’s most iconic antebellum mansions. The blaze, which started in the afternoon around 2 p.m. in the south wing of the sprawling estate, quickly spread through the 64-room, 53,000-square-foot mansion, ultimately leading to the collapse of the roof and severe structural damage.
Firefighters from multiple departments—including White Castle, Baton Rouge, Plaquemine, Bayou Goula, and Donaldsonville—rushed to the scene in a coordinated effort to contain the fire. Despite their swift and determined response, the north wing of the mansion and much of its back wall collapsed by nightfall, leaving only the chimneys standing where the second and third floors once stood. Fortunately, there were no guests on the property at the time of the fire, and no injuries have been reported.
Nottoway Plantation is an architectural and historical gem, known for its blend of Greek Revival and Italianate styles. Built in 1859 by enslaved laborers for planter John Hampden Randolph, the mansion spanned 31 acres along the Mississippi River and featured 40 rooms, including a stunning three-story rotunda and expansive oak-lined lawns. Until the fire, it held the distinction of being the largest antebellum plantation house in the South, drawing tourists from across the country eager to witness its grandeur and history.
The cause of the devastating fire remains under investigation by local authorities. Iberville Parish President Chris Daigle expressed cautious optimism, noting that because the mansion was constructed in phases, there may be hope for preserving the central structure of the Nottoway Plantation and potentially restoring parts of the estate. However, the full extent of the damage and the future of the plantation remain uncertain.
The Nottoway Plantation is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and has long been a major cultural and tourist landmark in southern Louisiana. Its rich history, architecture, and connection to the region’s past have made it a treasured site. The current owners have not yet confirmed their plans moving forward, as they assess the damage and consider the options available.
This tragic fire marks a significant loss for Louisiana’s historical heritage. The Nottoway Plantation’s grand mansion was not only an architectural masterpiece but also a symbol of the complex and often painful history of the American South. As restoration experts and historians evaluate the damage, many hope that efforts will be made to preserve what remains of the Nottoway Plantation and honor the legacy of this remarkable estate.
For those interested in seeing the scale of the fire and the efforts made by firefighters, video footage is available showing the intense blaze and response efforts as crews worked to bring the fire under control.
The incident serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of historical landmarks like the Nottoway Plantation and the importance of preserving such sites for future generations.
