La Maison Acadienne

“The House of Acadia”

Soon after Nederland was settled many French people came from South Louisiana, an area populated by a great number of the nationality, to make their home here.

When the Dutch Museum was completed, M.L.C. Lucke and Sam Bass suggested that a French Museum be constructed adjacent to the windmill.

In 1974, Lucke proposed that this building be started with completion scheduled in time for the American Revolution Bicentennial in 1976.

An association was formed to build the new museum with Loveless Theriot, a Frenchman who had lived in Nederland over 50 years as chairman. The Chamber of Commerce later took over the responsibility for the building. It is a replica of early Acadian homes in South Louisiana and is called La Maison des Acadiennes, “House of Acadia.” Labor and funds were donated and the structure was completed and dedicated in March 1976.

Admission is free and the French House is open the same days and hours as the Dutch Windmill Museum.