Owner Vows to Rebuild Iconic Nottoway Plantation After Fire

Natchitoches attorney Dan Dyess announces plans to reconstruct the 160-year-old antebellum estate destroyed in 2025 blaze.

Feb. 23, 2026 at 10:03am

Dan Dyess, the owner of Nottoway Plantation in Iberville Parish, Louisiana, has announced plans to fully rebuild the iconic 160-year-old antebellum estate after it was destroyed in a fire in May 2025. Dyess, a Natchitoches attorney, says the project will cost millions of dollars and take 2-3 years to complete, but he is committed to preserving the historic property and respecting its legacy in the community.

Why it matters

Nottoway Plantation was one of the most recognizable and beloved historic structures in the region, attracting tourists from across the U.S. and around the world. Its destruction was a major loss for the community, and Dyess' decision to rebuild the plantation from the ground up demonstrates his passion for preserving the property's history and significance.

The details

Dyess acquired Nottoway in October 2024, just months before the devastating fire. He says the project will be completed in phases, starting with demolition and cleanup of the site. The new Nottoway will be an exact replica of the original structure, with the same look and design. Dyess had no insurance on the property, so he is funding the rebuild himself and has also launched a 'Rebuild Nottoway' fundraiser program where residents can purchase bricks with their names to be placed on the property.

  • Nottoway Plantation was destroyed in a fire on May 15, 2025.
  • Dyess acquired the property on October 31, 2024.
  • Dyess announced plans to rebuild Nottoway last week.

The players

Dan Dyess

A Natchitoches attorney who acquired Nottoway Plantation in October 2024 and is now leading the effort to rebuild the iconic 160-year-old antebellum estate after it was destroyed in a fire in May 2025.

Nottoway Plantation

A historic antebellum estate in Iberville Parish, Louisiana that was one of the most recognizable and beloved landmarks in the region, attracting tourists from across the U.S. and around the world.

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What they’re saying

“We're trying to hang on to whatever is left that we can use. The project will come in phases.”

— Dan Dyess, Owner, Nottoway Plantation

“It takes a big passion and a love for the property. I could've sold the property, but my wife and I aren't that way. We want to preserve it.”

— Dan Dyess, Owner, Nottoway Plantation

What’s next

Dyess says the rebuild project will take at least 2-3 years to complete, with the first phase focused on demolition and cleanup of the site.

The takeaway

Dyess' commitment to rebuilding the iconic Nottoway Plantation from the ground up demonstrates the deep sentimental value and historical significance of the property for the local community. Despite the massive financial and logistical challenges, his passion for preserving this beloved landmark will ensure its legacy lives on for generations to come.