Port Hudson State Historic Site: What You Need to Know
Love history? Walk the grounds where the longest siege in U.S. military history took place.
By the summer of 1863, the Civil War had been raging for two years, with dozens of battles waged across Louisiana. The Union had captured the largest city in the Confederacy, New Orleans, a year earlier and was now vying for control over Louisiana port cities farther upriver.
Port Hudson, an unincorporated community just north of Baton Rouge, was one of them. The patch of ground that today comprises Port Hudson State Historic Site occupies a strategic spot of high ground overlooking the Mississippi River. While the Union army traveled up the Mississippi in May 1863, the Confederates had already sent reinforcements south from its stronghold in Vicksburg. This site, where the two nations met, became the scene of one of the longest sieges in U.S. military history.
The numbers were not in the Confederacy's favor. Their 6,800 troops were no match for the 30,000 Union soldiers surrounding their stronghold. For 48 days, Port Hudson was the scene of sustained battles, resulting in more than 12,000 deaths and the Confederate surrender on July 9. With the win, Union forces gained control of the Mississippi River and its tributaries. The annual battle re-enactment each spring provides a look at the Union and Confederate soldiers, as well as the cooks, laundresses and even salespeople who traveled with them.
Today, take a guided tour of Port Hudson State Historic Site and view artillery displays and ridges positioned above Sandy and Foster creeks. Numerous overlooks and trails are found throughout the park, and the museum gives an overview of what was at stake in the Siege of Port Hudson.
Things to Do Near Port Hudson State Historic Site
Nearby attractions include shopping and dining along St. Francisville Main Street and the West Feliciana Historical Society Museum in St. Francisville. Drive a half-hour to Baton Rouge and see Louisiana's Old State Capitol and the LSU Museum of Art at the Shaw Center for the Arts.
Visiting Port Hudson State Historic Site
When is Port Hudson State Historic Site open?
Port Hudson State Historic Site is open 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. daily, except Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day.
How much does it cost to get into Port Hudson State Historic Site?
Admission to Port Hudson State Historic Site is $6 per person ages 7-61, $4 for seniors 62 and older, and free for children 6 and younger.
Where is Port Hudson State Historic Site located?
Port Hudson State Historic Site is located at 236 Hwy. 61 in Jackson.
