Discover the stories of nine formerly enslaved men through a guided historical experience in Louisiana’s River Parishes.
At Laura Plantation: Louisiana’s Creole Heritage Site in Vacherie, Louisiana, visitors can explore a powerful chapter of American history through the stories of nine formerly enslaved men who left the plantation during the Civil War to serve in the Union armed forces.
The Black Union Soldiers of Laura Plantation Tour honors these men and their contributions to the fight for freedom, bringing their individual experiences to life through historical research, military records and personal accounts.
Explore the Black Union Soldiers Tour at Laura Plantation
The 50-minute guided tour takes visitors through the historic plantation grounds, including original 1840s slave cabins, while exploring the lives of the nine men and the historical circumstances surrounding their military service.
Visitors can also explore a self-guided exhibition that provides additional context about the enslaved community at Laura Plantation.
The experience reflects Laura Plantation’s ongoing commitment to documenting and sharing the lives of the people who lived and labored on the property, ensuring their stories remain an essential part of the region’s history.
Laura Plantation Featured in NOLA.com
The tour was recently featured in an October 18, 2026, NOLA.com article by contributing writer Dave Walker, titled “Laura Plantation in Vacherie honors enslaved men who fought in the Civil War.”
Read the NOLA.com feature (subscription required).
Plan Your Visit
Located in Vacherie, in the heart of Louisiana’s River Parishes, Laura Plantation offers visitors an opportunity to explore Louisiana’s Creole heritage and gain a deeper understanding of the people and events that shaped the region.
The Black Union Soldiers Tour is approximately 50 minutes, and advance reservations are recommended.
Learn more about the tour and reserve your visit at Laura Plantation.
