Bocage Plantation

Considered the best and most original interpretation of American Greek Revival architecture in the nation, Bocage is a historic treasure not to be missed. Steeped in history with ties to Christopher Columbus and the early colonization of America, the magnificent mansion was designed by famous architect James Dakin and built in 1837. (The original 1801 Creole cottage on the site burned.) Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Bocage is well documented in many books and it has been used as a Hollywood movie set. It has long been considered one of the jewels of the River Road plantations between New Orleans and Baton Rouge. Dr. Marion Rundell, a native of Louisiana and a well-respected pathologist has returned the mansion to its original splendor. “The plantation has never been open for public tours,” he said. “When I purchased Bocage in 2008 my goal was to open it for the public to enjoy. It is a unique property that maintains an important role in the history of the great plantation houses of the United States. Now you can visit it and see why it holds such an important historical role.” Now an elegant bed and breakfast, the stately mansion is open for tours and group functions. No expense has been spared to furnish the mansion in fine antiques and accessories, from the great furniture makers such as Mallard, Belter, Roux, Lee, Meeks and others, to grand Baccarat and Waterford chandeliers. “We have paintings by famous artists such as Rembrandt Peale and Thomas Sully, and even a fine clock signed by Tiffany. We are also proud of our fine collection of Old Paris porcelain vases,” Dr. Rundell explained. The second-level grand rooms overlook the levee that fronts the Mississippi River. Handsome double parlors open onto the front gallery that provides a panoramic view of the 100-acre plantation. Located about an hour from New Orleans, or 20 minutes from Baton Rouge, Bocage is on the East Bank of the Great River Road, approximately 47 miles from New Orleans and just a short distance from Interstate-10 (turn off I-10 at Highway 22).