About the Historic Carter House Society Inc.
The Historic Carter House Society, Inc. (HCHS) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to the preservation, restoration, and public interpretation of the Historic Carter House, one of Louisiana’s most significant historic landmarks.
Organized in November 2010, HCHS held its first official meeting in February 2011. The organization was founded by a group of local residents from Carter Plantation in Springfield, Louisiana, who recognized the urgent need to preserve the Carter House for future generations.
Mission Statement
The mission of the Historic Carter House Society, Inc. is to foster appreciation of Carter Plantation’s unique history, conduct historical research, preserve the Carter House and Carter Plantation, provide educational opportunities, and offer the public meaningful and engaging heritage experiences.
Preserving a Landmark of State and National Significance
The Federal-style raised Carter House, built between 1817 and 1820 by Thomas Freeman, a free man of color, is located in Carter Plantation, Springfield, Louisiana. The home was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1979 and is frequently referenced in historical articles and publications as the oldest plantation home in “The Free State of Livingston.”
Thomas Freeman’s role in the construction of the house represents a rare and powerful chapter in African American and Louisiana history. Subsequent owners of the property included prominent businessmen and political leaders, each contributing to the region’s development and legacy.
Organizational Structure and Stewardship
Through dedicated work in 2011, HCHS formally incorporated, established bylaws, developed a business plan, and received 501(c)(3) nonprofit status from the Internal Revenue Service. As a registered nonprofit, all donations to HCHS are tax-deductible and directly support preservation efforts.
Ownership of the Carter House and the surrounding 5.916 acres rests with the Carter Plantation Community Development District (CDD). The CDD acquired the property from the original developer of Carter Plantation on May 4, 2005, following its formation on January 9, 2003, under Livingston Parish Ordinance No. 02-41, in accordance with the Louisiana CDD Act.
On November 1, 2011, HCHS entered into a seven-year management agreement with the CDD to operate and maintain the Carter House and its grounds. The CDD has remained a strong and supportive partner in the ongoing preservation and restoration of the property.
Education, Community, and Public Access
Under HCHS management, the Carter House and surrounding property were formally established for use by the community, the general public, and educational institutions. HCHS is committed to expanding access to the site so that children and adults alike can learn about the Carter House’s role in shaping the history of Livingston Parish and the surrounding region.
In addition to guided tours and educational programming, the Carter House is available for special events and functions, including weddings, photography sessions, meetings, and private gatherings. Rental fees directly support restoration and preservation efforts, ensuring that the house continues to be maintained with care and historical integrity.
A Volunteer-Driven Mission
The Historic Carter House Society is a volunteer-based organization. All funds raised through donations, memberships, and event rentals are reinvested into the restoration, preservation, and long-term stewardship of the Carter House.
For additional information or to schedule a tour, please contact HCHS at 225-747-0660, visit carterplantationcdd.com, or follow the Historic Carter House on Facebook.
Become a Member of the Historic Carter House Society (HCHS)
Membership in the Historic Carter House Society, Inc. (HCHS) is open to the public, and your support plays a direct role in preserving one of Livingston Parish’s most important historic landmarks.
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Individual Membership: $30 per year
Family Membership: $40 per year
Membership is renewed annually and is open to anyone who values historic preservation, education, and community heritage.
To join, simply click the membership link, print the form, and return it to HCHS with your payment. Complete instructions are provided on the form.
Why Become a Member?
Every membership fee goes directly toward the restoration and preservation of the Historic Carter House. As a member, you are helping ensure this nationally recognized historic home remains accessible and protected for future generations.
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Directly support ongoing restoration efforts
Receive invitations to all HCHS meetings, including the annual meeting
Participate in the election of the HCHS Board of Directors
Become part of a community dedicated to Louisiana and African American history
What Your Membership Has Helped Accomplish
Since the organization’s founding in 2011, membership dues and donations have supported significant restoration work, including:
Repair of the front columns
Cleaning and painting of the front, right side, and kitchen/mudroom walls
Restoration and painting of the sunroom
Repair and painting of fascia adjacent to the sunroom
Installation of landscape lighting in the rear yard
Repair and painting of the dormers
Repair and painting of the back of the house
Replacement of the back door with a historically appropriate salvaged cypress door
Repair of shutters along the back of the house
Repair and painting of windows and wall areas near the sunroom and bar area
These improvements are made possible through community support and volunteer stewardship.
Not Ready to Become a Member?
You can still make a meaningful impact. Donations of any amount are always appreciated and are used exclusively for restoration and preservation efforts at the Historic Carter House.
Consider making a donation and help preserve Livingston Parish history.
Contact Information & Board of Directors
Board of Directors:
Judy Sharp, Chair
Chasity Chauvin, Vice Chair
Valerie Willman, Secretary/Treasurer
Susan Phillips, Director
Christina Volion, Director
Lanette Buie, Director
Telephone:
225-747-0660
Mailing Address:
Historic Carter House Society Inc.
Post Office Box 1182
Springfield, LA 70462
Street Address:
Carter House
30325 Carter Cemetery Road
Springfield, LA 70462