The Bentley Academy

Here is something I never knew! Did you know that around the turn of the last century, there was a private school held in the DAR Chapter House called the Bentley Academy? It was ran by a man named Professor Robert Ryland Bentley. Some of the finest families in Monroe sent their kids to be … Continue reading The Bentley Academy →

Early Monroe Homes Report, 1966

Here is another treasure from Nan Saulsberry! It is a report she did on the area's historic homes. The buildings that are mentioned: O'Kelly House, Lower and Upper Pargoud Plantations, Fort Miro DAR Chapter House, Layton Place, Ingleside, Colonial Dames Museum [Isaiah Garrett Law Office], Boscobel and the Filhiol Home. Keep in mind, some of … Continue reading Early Monroe Homes Report, 1966 →

DAR Chapter House has a forgotten Time Capsule!

I think I may have just found a hidden time capsule! At the DAR Chapter House, on the grounds of the Courthouse, sit two benches, in honor of the founding of Fort Miro. I've never thought anything about them. Two weeks ago, browsing the old Monroe newspapers, I found an article in the March 10, … Continue reading DAR Chapter House has a forgotten Time Capsule! →

Is the DAR Chapter House the oldest building in Ouachita Parish?

I'm about to stir up some controversy with a simple, two letter answer to the above question: No. Hear me out. For my entire career, I have heard that the Chapter House behind the Courthouse dates to 1816. Some said there were originally two buildings the same size on opposite ends of the courthouse square … Continue reading Is the DAR Chapter House the oldest building in Ouachita Parish? →