by Wilbert Carmouche
Please be sure to read this month’s cover story, you’ll definitely want to take this journey! 318Central.com
The Northup Trail takes you along the path of Solomon Northup during his 12-year journey as a slave in Central Louisiana. Originally from New York, Northup was kidnapped, sold as a slave in New Orleans, and arrived in Alexandria in 1841 until he legally regained his freedom at the Avoyelles Parish Courthouse in 1853.
The trail follows his path through Rapides and Avoyelles Parishes, visiting sites such as the Red River Landing where Northup disembarked the steamer Rodolf, the Epps House, the Bunkie Depot, and the Avoyelles Parish Courthouse.
The novel, Twelve Years a Slave, the story of Solomon Northup, was made into a movie that won 2013 Best Picture of the Year. Plan for stops at points of interest to see historic sites, registered historic houses, museums, churches and cemeteries, farms, shops, eateries and lodging accommodations.
This is a perfect opportunity to Staycation in Central Louisiana! Pick up your map at Avoyelles Tourist Commission, Alexandria-Pineville CVB, or Bunkie Depot and at www.byways.louisianatravel.com
