Don Rouleau's life long fascination with the American Civil War led him to over twenty five years of collecting authentic artifacts and memorabilia. This unique private collection contains articles used by both the Union and Confederate forces.

American made long guns including sharpshooter's rifles and some of the most popular European imports are displayed. Hand guns include Colts, Stars, Remington and other makers. A variety of artillery shells, cavalry items and enlisted men's and officer's swords round out the weapons.

Life in camp is represented by personal items, toilet articles, games, camp equipment and homespun blankets. Tin types, daguerreotypes, and CVD images, plus handwritten letters, Bibles and books show the soldiers' concern and longing for loved ones at home.

Examples of how the war was financed include bonds, revenue stamps, paper money and coinage. The sorrow and pain endured by mothers, wives and sweethearts left at home can be felt through articles of daily life and especially through mourning clothing and jewelry.

The farm house itself has Civil War ties in that the Laird family befriended and nursed several Confederate soldiers. One soldier who died was buried by Mr. Robert Henderson Laird at his expense.

Captain James Knox Polk Blackburn of Terry's Texas Rangers (8th Texas Cavalry) convalesced at Lairdland after being wounded supporting the Confederate cause in Middle Tennessee. After the war Blackburn returned to Lairdland and married the Laird daughter. His memoirs are published in "Terry Texas Ranger Trilogy". The property remained in the Blackburn family until purchased by Don and Bennita Rouleau in 2002.