Plantation Houses of the Alabama Canebrake and Their Associated Outbuildings Multiple Property Submission facts for kids

Quick facts for kids
Plantation Houses of the Alabama Canebrake and Their Associated Outbuildings Multiple Property Submission
U.S. National Register of Historic Places
Location in Alabama
Location	Hale and Marengo counties, Alabama
NRHP reference No.	64500009

The Plantation Houses of the Alabama Canebrake and Their Associated Outbuildings Multiple Property Submission is a special way that many historic places are listed together on the National Register of Historic Places. This list includes old plantation homes and their other buildings located in a unique part of Alabama called the Alabama Canebrake.

The National Park Service decided that these buildings are very important. They show us what life was like in one of Alabama's wealthiest areas long ago. These homes and their surrounding structures are valuable because they have survived over time. They help us understand the history and architecture of the region.

Exploring the Alabama Canebrake Region

The Alabama Canebrake is a historic area in west-central Alabama. It covers parts of Hale and Marengo counties. This region was known for its very fertile soil. This made it a great place for farming, especially cotton, in the 1800s.

Why "Canebrake"?

The name "Canebrake" comes from the thick growths of giant cane that once covered the land. This plant is a type of bamboo. The rich soil and warm climate made it ideal for large farms. Many grand homes were built here during that time.

What is a Multiple Property Submission?

A Multiple Property Submission (MPS) is a special document. It helps the National Register of Historic Places list many related historic sites at once. Instead of listing each building separately, an MPS groups them. This happens when the buildings share a common history, architectural style, or purpose.

Preserving History Together

For the Alabama Canebrake, this MPS helps protect many plantation houses. These homes are important because they show similar building styles. They also tell the story of the region's farming past. Listing them together makes it easier to recognize and preserve their shared history.

Historic Plantation Homes of the Canebrake

The homes listed in this submission are examples of 19th-century architecture. They show different styles popular during that era. Many of these houses were built with impressive designs. They often included large columns and wide porches.

Outbuildings and Their Importance

Besides the main houses, the submission also includes "associated outbuildings." These are smaller buildings found on the property. They might include kitchens, stables, or other structures. These outbuildings are important because they complete the picture of how these properties functioned. They show us more about daily life and work on these large farms.

Notable Properties in the Submission

Many specific homes are part of this important list. Each one has its own unique story and features. Some of these homes have been carefully preserved. Others have faced challenges over time.