34 “Only in Louisiana” Museums “Only in Louisiana” Museums Marvel at these one-of-a-kind collections offering a fascinating glimpse into the Bayou State. Mardi Gras Museum of Imperial Calcasieu Marvel at the costumes in the design room at this colorful Lake Charles museum. ©Visit Lake Charles Shreveport Water Works Museum, Shreveport This museum is located in the McNeill Street Pumping Station, which has the distinction of being both a National Historic Landmark and a National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark. The station opened in 1887 as Shreveport’s first water plant, and when the old steam pumps were finally retired in 1980, the plant was believed by the Smithsonian to be the last operating steam-powered municipal water works in America. Today, the entire physical plant remains in place after more than 100 years of service and is a rare example of an intact steam water works. Mardi Gras Museum of Imperial Calcasieu, Lake Charles There’s nothing more “Louisiana” than Mardi Gras—and no better place to celebrate it than at this fascinating showcase of all of the storied traditions, colorful costumes, pomp and pageantry of this party like no other. Immerse yourself in its history as you stroll through halls of glittering Mardi Gras costumes—the largest collection anywhere—some of them worn by animated mannequins that bring their magic to life! PS: It’s no coincidence this museum is located in Lake Charles. That festive southwest Louisiana city hosts one of the state’s largest Mardi Gras festivals. H. J. Smith’s Sons General Store & Museum, Covington Talk about stepping back in time: This family-owned blast from the past doesn’t just contain artifacts—it is one! In business on the Louisiana Northshore since 1876, the store houses hundreds of items from the late 1800s and early 1900s, including a cast iron casket, a stagecoach once pulled by goats, a hand-operated wooden washing machine, a 1920s LouisianaTravel.com
Louisiana Travel Guide Louisiana Sunshine Magazine 2021: Page 34
