EPPS HOUSE
The historic Epps House, Solomon Northup’s Gateway to Freedom, is located on the campus of Louisiana State University in Alexandria, Louisiana, about a 1 hour drive from Cane River Creole National Historical Park and Cane River National Heritage Area.
Solomon Northup was a slave under the ownership of Edwin Epps, the former overseer of Oakland Plantation. In 1852, Epps hired architect and carpenter Samuel Bass to build this single-story, wood-frame Creole cottage for his family. Northup was put to task in helping Bass, and it was through their friendship that Bass learned of Northup’s plight, and wrote to his friends and family, paving the way for Northup’s freedom. It was in this house, that Epps was informed that Northup was a kidnapped free man who would return to his family in Glens Falls, New York.
The construction of this house played a significant role in ending Northrup’s twelve years as a slave. He tells of his experience in his 1853 book, Twelve Years a Slave, which inspired a 1984 documentary, “Solomon Northup’s Odyssey.”
Recognizing the connection between the construction of the house and Northup’s freedom, LSU history professor and author Dr. Sue Eakin acted twice to save the Epps House from demolition. Today, though the Epps House has been moved from its original location and has lost some of its original building materials, the building retains its historic significance. It stands as an exhibit dedicated to Solomon Northup, featuring information on the Northup Trail and Dr. Sue Eakin, as well as period folk art and digital displays.
The Epps House is located on the campus of Louisiana State University Alexandria, at 8100 Hwy 71 South Alexandria, LA 71302. It is open Thursday-Sunday from 12pm-4pm. It is also available to groups by appointment by calling (318) 445-3672. Admission is free. See www.lsua.edu/EppsHouse.
