Guide to Centenary State Historic Site in Jackson, Louisiana
Tour the original grounds of Louisiana’s oldest college.
In the rolling hills about 30 miles north of Baton Rouge are the remains of what was once Centenary College. The liberal arts school was founded in 1825 and today, as the main attraction at Centenary State Historic Site in Jackson, it tells the story of a once-thriving men’s college whose rise to prominence was dramatically affected by the Civil War.
History of Centenary College
Students of what was originally the College of Louisiana were the sons of planters and professionals, and within 20 years of its founding, the College of Louisiana’s enrollment had grown significantly greatly — but financial hardship led to its merger with another school, Mississippi’s Centenary College.
The newly minted Centenary College of Louisiana flourished until the Civil War, when Union troops used the dormitories for housing and Confederates converted part of the school into a hospital. Now with damaged buildings and low enrollment, Centenary College never recovered after the war, and in 1908 the school moved to Shreveport, where it remains in operation today.
Other Things to Do in Jackson, Louisiana
While you're in Jackson, continue your historical exploration by staying at the Old Centenary Inn, which was constructed using salvaged materials from the college's old East Dormitory building down the street. Just outside of town, admire the flora and fauna of Mary Ann Brown Nature Preserve in St. Francisville. A little farther down the road in Baton Rouge, see the Capitol Park Museum to learn about the state's history and culture, or visit the USS KIDD Veterans Museum.
Note: The USS KIDD is currently in Houma, receiving an extensive overhaul, through 2025. While the museum remains open, the historic WWII destroyer isn't expected to return to the Baton Rouge riverfront until Spring 2026. Visit the museum's website for updates.
Visiting Centenary State Historic Site
The college's former grounds are open to visitors, and the West Wing dormitory and a professor’s house still stand, offering insights into college life 200 years ago. Guided tours of the buildings and grounds are available by appointment at Centenary State Historic Site, or visitors can explore the grounds on their own.
When is Centenary State Historic Site open?
Centenary State Historic Site grounds are open 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Thursday – Saturday, except Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day.
How much does it cost to get into Centenary State Historic Site?
Admission to Centenary State Historic Site grounds is $6 per person ages 7-61, $4 for seniors 62 and older, and free for children 6 and younger. Guided site tours are $10 per person ages 7-61, $8 for seniors 62 and older, and free for children 6 and younger.
Where is Centenary State Historic Site located?
Centenary State Historic Site is located at 3522 College St. in Jackson.
