From Plantation to Emancipation – The Freedom Experience

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During your tour of three historic houses that tell Houston’s stories from plantation to emancipation, the talented actor brings the hardships of slavery and the victory of freedom to life in dramatic reenactments. The historical script was written by Martha Whiting-Goddard, Reverend Jack Yates’ great granddaughter, who lived in the Yates House that was relocated to Sam Houston Park.

Explore the following three houses that are designated by UNESCO as Sites of Memory for their "Slave Route Project" - 1847 Kellum-Noble House; 1866 Fourth Ward Cottage; and 1870 Yates House.

The talented reenactor, Khi Stephens, brings the hardships of slavery and the victory of freedom to life through song, a Library of Congress slave narrative, and a portrayal written by a descendant of the Reverend Jack Yates. Stephens studied theater in Los Angeles and was coached by Martha Whiting-Goddard on her roles.

From Plantation to Emancipation – The Freedom Experience begins on Saturday, February 10 in celebration of Black History Month. These 90-minute tours are offered on the second and fourth Saturdays of the month; from 12:30 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. Free parking at 212 Dallas Street.

Groups of 10 or more are encouraged to make a reservation at least two (2) weeks in advance. To make a reservation or to request more information, call 713-655-1912 and ask for Nicole or email grouptours@heritagesociety.org.

This tour is a Houston Signature Experience by VisitHouston. More info: Houston's rich tapestry of history, culture and stories are vividly brought to life in a collection of immersive experiences designed to honor and showcase the city's black-owned businesses and its pivotal role in black history. This collection, curated in collaboration with local partners, offers a unique blend of narrative, flavor, and memory across five distinctive experiences. Each experience, rooted in authenticity and passion, is a tribute to the stories, flavors, and people that define Houston's black community. Together, they form a compelling invitation to explore, taste, and learn in a city that continues to shape its history with pride and resilience.