Civil War Sites in Louisiana
From the historic museums in New Orleans, to the intriguing battlefields in Plantion Country, to the National Cemeteries of Chalmette, LA is brimming with Civil War history. Here are 10 must-see Civil War sites in LA:
1. Confederate Memorial Hall Museum
Found in the heart of the Warehouse District of New Orleans, Confederate Memorial Hall Museum boasts the second largest collection of Confederate artifacts and memorabilia in the US, including uniforms, weapons, personal items, and more.
For a little local Civil War history, check out the Red River Campaign Special Exhibit, featuring tons of items specific to the central Louisiana campaign of 1864, including photos, flags, and more.
2. Old U.S. Mint
Located in the historic French Quarter of NOLA, the Old U.S. Mint is a branch of the multi-site Louisiana State Museum, housing tons of US artifacts dating back to the early 1800s. Although it was closed during the Civil War (and reopened afterward), the building oozes Louisiana culture, and makes a great stop for any history buff visiting the area.
3. Capitol Park Museum.
Set just a short walk from the Louisiana State Capitol in Baton Rouge, Capitol Park Museum is known for housing an authentic Civil War submarine, recently raised from the bottom of nearby Lake Pontchartrain. The Capitol Park Museum is also a branch of the Louisiana State Museum.
4. Kent Plantation House
To visit to the Kent Plantation House is to go back in time, as the “oldest standing structure in central Louisiana” is awash with authentic and refurbished period décor, furniture, and other artifacts.
5. Louisiana History Museum
While you explore Alexandria, be sure to stop at the Louisiana History Museum downtown and check out the Civil War exhibit.
The displays at the Louisiana History Museum focus on the damming of the nearby Red River by General Joseph Baily – an excellent way to get in touch with some local history.
6. Mansfield State Historic Site
Discover the Mansfield State Historic Site, former whereabouts of the Battle of Mansfield of 1864 and integral part of the Red River Campaign. Featuring a collection of monuments and authentic artillery, this must-see is located just minutes south of Mansfield in northern Louisiana.
7. Chalmette National Cemetery
Adjacent to the Chalmette Battlefield, the Chalmette National Cemetery features over 15,000 graves, helping to contextualize the Civil War in Chalmette. Moreover, you’ll have easy access to the nearby Chalmette Monument, great for discovering the Battle of New Orleans and other local history.
8. Old Louisiana State Capitol
An architectural gem, the Old Louisiana State Capitol Building in Baton Rouge invites visitors of Plantation Country to view the Civil War-era historic exhibits and the popular “Ghost of the Castle” show.
9. Magnolia Cemetery & Baton Rouge National Cemetery
Two historic attractions in one – the BREC Magnolia Cemetery and Baton Rouge National Cemetery conveniently sit face-to-face in Baton Rouge, helping tell the tale of the Battle of Baton Rouge. The two cemeteries combine for nearly 20 acres, and are absolute worth a visit.
10. Port Hudson State Historic Site
Just north of Baton Rouge, near the town of St. Francisville, the Port Hudson State Historic Site offers over six miles of scenic walking trails, exploring the site of the Siege of Port Hudson. Check out some of the authentic artillery and fortifications and the Port Hudson Peace Monument found within.