A French Connection

Pigeonniers were once common on Louisiana Creole plantations. Constructed of timber framing with bousillage infill, they are among the most direct links between French and Louisiana architecture. Originally built as coops to raise pigeons for food, these pigeon houses also became status symbols representing high social standing in both France and Louisiana. Until the late 18th century, only French landowners had the right to raise pigeons. French pigeonniers were elaborately built to impress onlookers and display wealth, and though Louisiana examples were less ornamental than their French counterparts, their symbolism carried no less meaning on the Louisiana Creole plantation landscape. The upper story contained nesting boxes, and squabs, domesticated pigeons less than four weeks old, were tended as a delicacy for the planter. Pigeons perched on a shelf set below the access holes to the nesting area.

Louisiana · United States