Solomon Northup's Gateway to Freedom
The Edwin Epps House is a single-story, wood-frame Creole cottage presently located on the campus of Louisiana State University of Alexandria. Though the Epps House has been moved from its original location and has lost a significant portion of its original building materials, the physical presence of the structure retains its historic significance in association with the famous slave narrative Twelve Years a Slave.
Had it not been for the construction of the Epps House, Solomon Northup may never have been rescued. The construction of this house played a significant role in ending Northup’s twelve years as a slave, which in turn allowed Northup to publish his story. Recognizing this connection, former LSUA history professor Sue Eakin twice acted to save the Epps House from demolition. It is only fitting that this story, which began long ago, be told today inside the structure that brings it to life.
Directions
From i-49 north, take exit 80 and merge onto us-167 s / us-71 s towards macarthur drive. continue 5.2 miles, and take a left at gregg marshall drive, then another left at acorn drive.
From I-49 south, take exit 80 and keep right at the fork. follow the signs for us-71 s/us-167 s and merge onto us-71 s/ us-167 s. continue 4.8 miles, and take a left at gregg marshall drive, then another left at acorn drive.
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