Historic Latta Plantation is the only surviving Catawba River Plantation open to the public.  The circa-1800 home of James Latta is surrounded by 13 outbuildings and depicts the story of life for planters and enslaved African Americans in 19^th century North Carolina backcountry.  Now a living history farm, Latta provides a unique window into the past for visitors who can also see a 19^th century period kitchen garden, short-staple cotton crops, historic breeds of rare and endangered livestock, and a honey bee exhibit.

James Latta was a Scots-Irish immigrant who made his fortune as a traveling merchant. By the 1820s, his age prevented him from travel and he turned his property into a successful cotton plantation.  Thirty four enslaved African Americans lived and worked on the plantation.  By 1853, most of the Latta family had died and the Sample family purchased the property, renaming it Riverside, because of its proximity to the Catawba River.  All four of the Sample family boys fought in the American Civil War and survived major battles, prison camps and sickness. 

Latta’s many special programs and events breathe life into Mecklenburg’s rich cultural past.  Daily admission includes a fifteen minute introductory video of the site, a guided tour of the Latta home and a self-guided tour of the grounds.  In the Heritage Center, visitors can view exhibits and shop in the Merchant Wagon gift shop.  Latta holds over 35 special events and workshops each year. 

In May, Latta will celebrate Armed Forces Day with a World War II Battle Reenactment.  The National Guard used the Latta property as a training ground during the War.  Visitors can come on May 15-16 and see a battle between American and German troops each day, hear talks on uniform and gear, see the Allied and Axis camps and numerous demonstrations. This event is based on the Liberation of France between the landings of Allied Troops in Normandy on June 6^th, 1944 to the fall of Paris in August of 1944.  All World War II veterans will be admitted free, while other veterans and active duty military will receive a discount for this event. 

On July 17-18, Latta will continue to celebrate our nation’s armed forces by holding the annual Civil War Reenactment.  In addition to watching a battle each day, visitors can tour the soldier camps, see various demonstrations, shop with period sutlers and visit the plantation house, outbuildings, grounds, and animals. 

Latta invites all to come out for both of these events and honor those who have made sacrifices to protect what America holds most dear, our freedom. 

For more information about Historic Latta Plantation, call 703-875-2312 or visit www.lattaplantation.org.