LSU Rural Life Museum Guide
A Living History: Experience 18th and 19th Century Louisiana at the LSU Rural Life Museum Guide
Step into a bygone era at the LSU Rural Life Museum, one of the largest outdoor museums of its kind in the United States. This living history museum offers a captivating glimpse into the daily lives of 18th and 19th-century Louisianans, showcasing the diverse cultures and traditions that shaped the state. Explore meticulously preserved buildings, artifacts, and landscapes that bring the past to life. The museum was established in the 1970s with the goal of preserving and interpreting the material culture of rural Louisiana. It encompasses over 30 historic buildings, including plantation homes, slave cabins, a blacksmith shop, a church, and a schoolhouse. These structures have been carefully relocated from various parts of the state and restored to their original condition. The museum's collection also includes thousands of artifacts, ranging from furniture and tools to clothing and household items. Visitors can wander through the museum's various sections, each representing a different aspect of rural life. Explore the working plantation, learn about the lives of enslaved people, and discover the skills and crafts of early settlers. The museum also hosts demonstrations and events throughout the year, such as blacksmithing, cooking, and weaving. While the museum itself doesn't offer food, it provides a context for understanding the culinary traditions of the time, which were heavily influenced by the available resources and the diverse cultural backgrounds of the people who lived in rural Louisiana.
Transportation
The LSU Rural Life Museum is located on Burden Lane in Baton Rouge. It is best accessed by car, as public transportation options are limited. From I-10, take the Essen Lane exit and head south. Turn left onto Perkins Road, then right onto Kenilworth Parkway. Turn left onto Burden Lane. The museum will be on your right.