A pioneer historic preservationist

Natalie Vivian Scott

Scott's interest in preserving the French Quarter led to a larger interest in the architecture of the state. Her book Old Plantation Houses was an important influence in awakening Louisiana's historic preservation movement.

In this collaborative work, Natalie described the history and analyzed the architectural styles of Louisiana plantation homes. Noted New Orleans architect N. C. Curtis wrote the preface to the work, which he called "the first real book on Louisiana Architecture." It was a founding document in Louisiana's nascent historic preservation movement.

Artist William Spratling provided illustrations. Spratling at the time was head of Tulane University's architecture department. He later became a designer of Mexican silver and is considered the father of the Mexican silver industry.