Where to Honor Louisiana's African American Heritage
Get to know the people and places of Louisiana that played important roles in African-American history.
A cotton plantation founded by a formerly enslaved woman. The daughter of freed, formerly enslaved people who created a hair-care empire. A New Orleans boy who went from singing on street corners to headlining at Carnegie Hall. These are just a few of the fascinating stories you’ll hear as you join us to celebrate the cultural contributions of African Americans from Louisiana.
Since 1976, February has been designated as African American History Month. But in Louisiana, we pay tribute to this heritage year-round in places like Melrose, where former slave Marie-Therese Coin-Coin and her family founded what is now known as Melrose Plantation.
And that musician? Well, he just happened to become the one and only Louis “Satchmo” Armstrong, who helped popularize jazz. Each year, Satchmo SummerFest, a three-day festival in New Orleans, celebrates his life and music.
Explore African American traditions at the Creole Heritage Folklife Center.
Celebrate Louis Armstrong's legacy at Satchmo Summerfest.
Whitney Plantation tells the stories of formerly enslaved people.
Tour Evergreen Plantation, one of the largest historic homes in the nation.
You can learn more about these Louisianans and others as you travel Louisiana’s African American Heritage Trail. Stop in Grambling, a town settled by newly freed people. Today, it’s home to Grambling State University and the Eddie G. Robinson Museum, which honors the legendary football coach. Learn more about the history of Black Creoles at the Creole Heritage Folklife Center in Opelousas.
Tour the River Road African American Museum in Donaldsonville, which details what life was like for African Americans living along the Mississippi River. Nearby, visit Evergreen Plantation in Wallace. Tours explore housing for the enslaved and the impact of formerly enslaved people’s labor.
From political barrier breakers and brave soldiers to literary leaders and gospel queens, African Americans have made a tremendous impact on Louisiana history and culture. Join us as we celebrate our Black history and heritage.
