Built in 1800 by James Latta, the elegant Federal-style home on the Latta Plantation takes visitors back to the grand plantation life of the early 19th century. Now a living history museum, the property was once a prosperous cotton plantation. A mill, a quarry, and a fishery rounded out Latta's business interests, and many of the original outbuildings still stand today. A guided tour of the white frame house and its period furnishings gives guests a glimpse of the Latta lifestyle, while a pleasant stroll on the grounds reveals barnyard animals, gardens, outbuildings, and a replica log house.
One of the most important exhibits on the property is the Cabin for African-American Experience, which gives insight into the history and lives of the thirty-four slaves owned by Latta and whose work contributed greatly to the success of the plantation. Located within a nature preserve on Mountain Island Lake, the property also offers visitors numerous opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, fishing, and picnicking.
