Acadian Village, a charming open-air museum, offers visitors a chance to explore authentic 19th-century Acadian homes. While not as diverse as Vermilionville Historic Village, the exhibits here provide insight into early Acadian life in South Louisiana.
History and Purpose
Established in 1976, Acadian Village aims to preserve local heritage and raise funds for LARC, a non-profit organization supporting developmentally disabled individuals in the community. The village features several historic homes and structures, each with its own unique story.
Notable Buildings
Doctor Salles’ Residence
Formerly home to Lafayette’s first resident dentist, Hypolite Salles, this house now serves as an art gallery and the village’s administrative offices.
Doctor’s Museum
Adjacent to the Salles’ Residence, this Greek Revival-style structure from 1890 was once Dr. Salles’ dental practice. Visitors can view displays of dental instruments, medical books, equipment, medicine bottles, physicians’ diplomas, and photographs, including an image of Dr. Matthew Creighton, one of Lafayette’s first physicians.
Aurelie Bernard House
Dating back to around 1800, this is the oldest structure in the village. Items on display include:
- A large black iron pot (la chaudière)
- Cowhide chairs
- Pedal sewing machines
- Paintings by local artist Robert Dafford, depicting the Acadians’ expulsion and resettlement
A special Cajun music exhibit showcases photographs and vinyl records, including the popular song “Jole Blon.”
Billeaud House
Built on the former Billeaud Sugar Plantation in nearby Broussard, this post-Civil War building houses an exhibit on spinning and weaving, featuring an antique loom and colorful textiles.
Blacksmith Shop
This replica of a period blacksmith shop, constructed on-site using aged cypress planks, displays various tools of the trade, such as hammers, tongs, forge, and anvil. Periodic smithing demonstrations are held throughout the year.
La Maison Castille
This circa-1860 house features architectural elements such as an exterior staircase and cypress fireplace mantels carved with decorative motifs.
La Maison LeBlanc
Moved from its original location in neighboring Youngsville, this mid-19th century home showcases memorabilia related to former politician, entrepreneur, and Hadacol salesman Dudley J. LeBlanc, who was born here in 1894.
Le Chapel de Nouvel Espoir
Designed by local architects Robert Barras and Don Breaux, this charming 1850s-style Chapel of New Hope features a stark white interior, simple altar, colorful glass windows, wooden pews, and hand-carved wall plaques depicting the Stations of the Cross.
La Maison Saint Jean
This simple cypress structure from 1840, named for its previous location on Saint John Street, serves as a replica of an early schoolhouse with a wood-burning stove, vintage books, and old desks.
La Maison Thibodeaux
Dating back to 1820, this house features an exterior staircase leading to the garçonnièr (boys’ sleeping quarters) and is furnished with antique furniture and housewares, such as armoires, laundry tubs, irons, and a frottoir (washboard).
Special Events
In December, Acadian Village hosts Noël Acadien au Village, an enchanting ‘Acadian Christmas’ festival and light display.
Getting There and Ticket Information
LARC’s Acadian Village is located at 103 Greenleaf Drive, about a 15-minute drive south of Downtown Lafayette. Adult admission for Noël Acadien au Village is $10.00.
Tips for Visitors
- Some exhibits may appear dusty or outdated, and the experience may not be as comprehensive as Vermilionville Historic Village.
- Acadian Village is closed for the month of November.
- In December, opening hours are limited to 5:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Despite its limitations, Acadian Village offers a unique glimpse into the region’s past and is well worth a visit for those interested in exploring the roots of Acadian culture in South Louisiana.
