INDExtra

Preservation Alliance Christmas tour

by Mary Tutwiler

The Preservation Alliance of Lafayette is hosting two events this week.  The first is the Elmhurst Park Tour of Homes on Sunday, December 5th., 6-9 p.m. The Elmhurst neighborhood lies between Johnston St., University, St. John and St. Mary and was largely built between 1900 and 1940. There are a few examples of Victorian Queen Anne Revival, but the predominant architectural style is Craftsman.

The tour begins at the Alexandre Mouton House, 1122 Lafayette St., also known as the Lafayette Museum, c.1800. A short trolley ride into Elmhurst Park will get participants in the spirit as all the homes will be in full holiday regalia. Walk or take a horse drawn carriage to tour the neighborhood and enjoy the Christmas lights as well as traditional Christmas carolers.

Some of the homes in this cohesively historic neighborhood - The Dr. John & Edith Miles House, 614 Calder Street, Shady Brook House, 127 Cherry Street and Fournet House, 111 Dunreath Street - will be open to those on the PAL tour. There will be mixed media art by Gwen Aucoin, Kristie Cornell, Kate Lemoine, and Amanda Robicheaux available for sale at the Fournet House.

Meet the people who are actively working on preserving the city's historic structures, support preservation efforts, and enjoy the holiday charm.  Tickets can be purchased at the Alexandre Mouton House, either in advance or the night of the tours.

The cost is $15 for PAL members, $20 for non-members.

The following Wednesday, Nov. 7, PAL will conduct its annual fundraiser at Shagwood Manor the home of J.C. Chargois, Jr., at 1414 East Bayou Parkway.

Chargois is a well known interior designer and local historian. His family, one of the first to settle in Lafayette, has been recognized for its educational, cultural, and civic contributions to the area. J.C's colorful stories and vignettes of area personalities are injected with Cajun humor and joi de vivre.   Shagwood Manor houses a potpourri of fascinating antiques, objects d'art and memorabilia which include Rose medallion Canton Ware, cloisonne, antique crystal, silver, and china. Come and enjoy an evening of Southern charm and hospitality on the Vermilion River.

The cost for the event is $60 a person. For more information on both events, call Jeff Farcade, 291-8431.