Sponsored by Iron Creek at the Felicianas
Feliciana is Spanish for “happy land.” And who can argue? Beautiful rolling hills, lush woodlands, meandering creeks, open meadows and wildlife of every kind abound in East and West Feliciana parishes.
Eric Robicheaux likes to call this part of Louisiana “the beautiful Felicianas.” He wants others to discover the tranquility of this “happy land” — and maybe even decide to call it home.
Robicheaux is the developer of Iron Creek at the Felicianas, a residential development in
the East Feliciana Parish community of Ethel. It’s the perfect place for those looking to build a forever home surrounded by nature. And it’s only a half-hour from Baton Rouge — offering a convenient combination of country living with big-city amenities just a short drive away.
An avid outdoorsman, Robicheaux fell in love with the Felicianas and started acquiring land there about 20 years ago.
“Iron Creek is my way of sharing this place,” he says.
Years ago, Ethel was a whistle-stop town along the railroad and a thriving farming community. Now, Robicheaux says, there is renewed interest in the Felicianas countryside, its rich history and the simple, peaceful lifestyle it affords.
He’s proud of the community that is taking shape in Iron Creek. The spacious homesites
are more than just lots; they’re a place where people can pursue their passions and dreams.
“There is room for a nice shop, maybe a small barn, perhaps a pond or swimming pool and, of course, the chicken coop or kennel,” Robicheaux says. “Nothing wrong with a little breathing room between neighbors.”
Lots are between 2 and 4 acres. It’s an ideal size that’s not too big or too small, Robicheaux says.
“I found that maintaining acreage is a big job,” he says. “Most people don’t have time for that or have other uses for that time. A nice homesite is the best of both worlds — spacious yet manageable. An hour or two on a zero-turn mower usually does the job.”
And bring your fishing rod — there’s a 4-acre stocked pond for residents to enjoy.
Robicheaux spent his career in insurance and financial planning before making the switch to property development. For those mulling their options when it comes to building a home, Robicheaux encourages them to consider the once-in-a-lifetime opportunities available at Iron Creek.
“Unfortunately, we’ve all seen it — the folks who wait and save, and then save and wait some more until it’s too late. They realize that the dream has passed them by,” he says. “Who says you have to wait to build your dream home?”
Sometimes a great opportunity arises and isn’t worth passing up. Robicheaux believes that’s the case at Iron Creek.
“It’s the serenity that grabs you,” Robicheaux says. “Building a home is hard work and takes years of planning and a pretty good chunk of money. So, if you’re going to do it, why not build on a place that you look forward to coming home to every day?”
A recently completed phase of construction brings the inventory to 17 available sites. Seven of the sites have waterfront views.
Robicheaux invites anyone interested in joining the community at Iron Creek at the Felicianas to call him with questions at 337.277.0419. Information about the development is also available online at ironcreekfelicianas.com and on Facebook.
“Or just come take a ride on Sunday afternoon,” Robicheaux says. “The tranquility will haunt you.”
