By Emma Riley Sutton
Louisiana is unlike any other place on the planet. A rare mix of Creole, Cajun, French and southern Americans makes this state unusual and distinguished. From its history, architecture, food and terrain, Louisiana has much to offer. Its people are friendly and eager to share the culture of Louisiana. This rare gem of a travel spot is truly a delight for all the senses.
Grave of Adolf Hitler's Horse
Adolf Hitler's horse, Nordlicht (North Light), was born in 1941 and died in 1968 in St. Rose, Louisiana, where he is now, allegedly, buried. The legend says this chestnut stallion was named Horse of the Year in 1944 in Germany. American soldiers brought him to the United States after the end of World War II. Nordlicht was purchased by C. Walter Mattingly, who brought him to La Blanche Plantation in 1948. This horse spent the rest of his life siring many thoroughbreds in the United States. If you're not interested in seeing the grave of Hitler's horse, visit the plantation anyway. You will also be able to see Zachary Taylor's bathtub.
Grave of Hitler's Horse
11244 River Road (La Branche Plantation)
St. Rose, Louisiana 70087
www.roadsideamerica.com/pet/nordlicht.html
Insectarium
Be prepared to be asked if you'd be interested in eating a bug. The staff chefs prepare "Mealworm Minestrone" and chocolate-covered cricket. A great place for children, the self-proclaimed "largest freestanding bug museum in the United States" is full of hands-on exhibits and off-the-wall displays. Walk through an oversized room and become the size of an insect where you will encounter a bird and a trapdoor spider. There is also a sealed kitchen cabinet full of roaches.
Insectarium
423 Canal St.
New Orleans, Louisiana 70130
(504) 410-2847
www.roadsideamerica.com/story/18502
Chapel of the Madonna
Follow the "Smallest Church in the World" signs along River Road less than 5 miles from the Nottoway Plantation to see this 8-by-8-foot church. You can even sit in one of the five chairs inside. Anthony Gullo, a sugar farmer, built this church in 1903. Every year on Aug. 15, Mass is held to celebrate the Assumption of the Blessed Mother.
Tiny Church--Chapel of the Madonna
River Road
Point Pleasant, Louisiana
(504) 687-7158
www.roadsideamerica.com/set/church.html
Britney Spears Museum
Take a peek through the navel of the giant cutout of Britney Spears at the Britney Spears Museum. Kentwood is the hometown of the pop star. The museum is dedicated to chronicling the life of Britney Spears from her childhood in Kentwood, time spent on the Mickey Mouse Club and her musical career.
Britney Spears Museum
204 Avenue E
Kentwood, Louisiana 70444
(985) 229-4656
www.roadsideamerica.com/news/5658
Bonnie and Clyde Ambush Museum
Ma Canfield's Café, the last place Bonnie and Clyde visited, is now the Bonnie and Clyde Ambush Museum. The pride of Gibsland, this small museum is only about 8 miles from where the actual ambush took place. See one of Clyde's Remington shotguns, Bonnie's red tam and glass from the "death car." For visitors who want to take home a souvenir, bricks from Ma Canfield's Café and swatches of Clyde's "death pants" can be purchased.
Bonnie and Clyde Ambush Museum
2419 Main St.
Gibsland, Louisiana 71028
(318) 843-1934
www.roadsideamerica.com/story/10864
Resources
About the Author:
Emma Riley Sutton has more than 25 years of writing experience, contributing to many nationally recognized magazines and copy writing for corporations and non-profit organizations. She has many years of experience as a professional wedding/event coordinator, interior decorator/home stager and career counselor/advocate. She has two degrees in English and public relations.
