The Grave of Julien
Poydras is in an unlikely place. Poydras, a plantation
owner and Louisiana statesman is considered the father
of public education in Louisiana. He owned two
plantations in the Pointe Coupee area, endowed a trust
fund for young brides without dowries which still exist
today (as an educational fund), and was considered quite
progressive in his attitudes toward slavery. Visitors
will find his grave on the grounds of the old Poydras
School on Main Street in New Roads. The building is now
being restored by the Pointe Coupee Historical Society
to be used as a cultural center and museum.
