flown over natchitoches. historic natchitoches april...

FRANCE 1714-1763

SPAIN 1763-1801

UNITED STATES 1960-PRESENT

CONFEDERATE STATES 1861-65

UNITED STATES 1803-61

FRANCE 1801-1803

STATE FLAG OF LOUISIANA

CITY OF NATCHITOCHES

HHistoricistoric NNatchitochesatchitoches ®®

A Free Guide to Leisure and Attractions in Natchitoches, Louisiana Courtesy of The Natchitoches Times

300 years of flags that haveflown over Natchitoches.

April 2015

Spring is in Full Gearin Natchitoches, Louisiana

JAZZ AND R&B FESTIVALBIKE NATCHITOCHES

ARTS FESTIVALSNEW EVENTS CALENDAR

TOUR MAPS INSIDEDRIVINGWALKINGNORTHWESTERN STATE UNIVERSITY TOURSTEEL MAGNOLIAS TOUR

Entering downtown his-toric Natchitoches, visitorsfeel transported to anotherera.

Traveling along bumpybrick roads reminiscent ofpre-asphalt travel, younotice ornate ironwork onthe bridges and shops,horse-drawn carriagesaround the historic districtand locals who smile andgreet you with a friendlywave. Welcome toNatchitoches.

Founded in 1714 by LouisJuchereau de St. Denis, thecity of Natchitoches wasoriginally established as aFrench outpost on the RedRiver to facilitate tradewith the Spanish in Mexico.

The fort, which was to bediscovered, was built some-where along the west bank

of the Red River near a vil-lage of NatchitochesIndians, a Native Americangroup whose tribal namemeans “Chinquapin-eaters.”

At the time of the estab-lishment of St. Denis’ fort,navigation of the Red Riverwas prohibited by a mas-sive log jam that was bro-ken up during a flood in the1830s.

Thus, the Red Riverchanged its course, leavinga 36-mile-long oxbow lakecalled Cane River that runsthrough the downtownNational LandmarkDistrict.

Once a bustling riverportand crossroads,Natchitoches gave rise tovast cotton kingdoms alongthe river. Affluent planters

not only owned charmingcountry plantations, butkept elegant houses intown.

The Red River’s abandon-ment of Natchitoches iso-lated the community, pre-serving its historic build-ings and the deeply-ingrained traditions of itsresidents along the CaneRiver.

With its French, Spanish,Native American, Africanand Anglo-Saxon influ-ences, Natchitoches main-tains a colorful palette ofethnic tradition, hospitali-ty and pride in the past thatresidents share with visi-tors.

Photo Credit: Mark BillsPhotography

HISTORIC NATCHITOCHES April 2015

Ins ide . . .Ins ide . . .Springtime Art Festivals.........................................................Page 3

Bike Natchitoches.........................................................Page 4

Creole Architecture.........................................................Page 5

Natchitoches Art Guild.........................................................Page 6

Maps, Walking Tours, NSU Tourand Cane River Tour...................................................Pages 7-10

Basilica of the Immaculate Conception.......................................................Page 11

Conservation of Creole Patriarch Tomb.......................................................Page 12

Sports Hall of Fame.......................................................Page 13

Creole History Museum.......................................................Page 14

Melrose Plantation.......................................................Page 15

Spring/Summer Events.......................................................Page 16

For more information on local history and events contact:Natchitoches Parish Tourist Commission

781 Front Street; Natchitoches, LA 71457 (318) 352-8072 or 1-800-259-1714

Web site: www.natchitoches.net

‘Historic Natchitoches’ is a monthly publication of The Natchitoches Times

To advertise in this publication contact The Natchitoches Times

P.O. Box 448Natchitoches, LA 71458

On the CoverSpring is in full gear in Natchitoches,

upcoming events

Welcome to Natchitoches:Enjoy your stay in our historic town

April 2015 HISTORIC NATCHITOCHES

Natchitoches is home tomany artists who showcasetheir art each year. Artistsalso come from surround-ing areas. Some of the festi-vals include The MelroseArts and Crafts Festival, sand The Cane River GreenMarket.

Melrose Arts &Crafts Festival

The 41st annual MelrosePlantation Arts and CraftsFestival has been sched-uled for April 18 and 19,according to HarryThompson, chairman forthe event. The festival issponsored by theAssociation for thePreservation of HistoricNatchitoches (APHN) andannually attracts morethan 2,000 visitors duringthe two-day event.

The festival will open at 9a.m. on the first day andwill open at 10 a.m. on thesecond day. Tickets are $5for adults and $3 for chil-dren ages 6-12. Tickets forthe guided tours are $5 andinclude both structures.Viewing of the other build-ings and self-guided toursof the grounds, which fea-ture centuries old live oaktrees and various flowerbeds, are included with theentry fee. Additional infor-mation about MelrosePlantation and the Artsand Crafts Festival may befound at www.melroseplan-tation.org.

Each year the festivalfeatures more the 100 ven-dors from several states.Among the items offered inpast years were originalworks of art, photographs,stained glass windows,handmade jewelry, plants,gourmet pickles and jellies,clothing, toys, woodwork-ing products, pottery, andother arts and craftsobjects. Located in south-ern Natchitoches Parish onState Highway 119, MelrosePlantation has been desig-nated as a NationalHistoric Landmark. Theproperty features eight his-toric structures dating tothe 1800’s. Guided tourswill be available for two ofthe buildings: the big houseand the African House.

Melrose Plantation was asanctuary for many artistsand writers during the“Southern Renaissance” inthe early 20th century andserved as a temporaryhome for several well-rec-ognized artists and writers.Lyle Saxon wrote his best-known novel, “Children ofStrangers,” while living atMelrose. His tale wasbased on the culture of theplantation and the CaneRiver area. FrancoisMignon resided at Melrosefor 32 years and wrote his“Plantation Memo” andseveral thousand pages ofjournal entries during thattime.

Probably the best-knowsartist to live at Melrose wasClementine Hunter, aninternationally renownedprimitive artist whoworked as a field hand,housekeeper, and finally asa cook at the plantation.She was a self-taught artistwho began painting usingpaints and brushes thatwere discarded by an artistin residence. Many ofHunter’s works are on dis-play in the plantation

house at Melrose. Her mostunique work, a series ofmurals depicting life in theCane River area, were dis-played in the AfricanHouse for many years, butthey were removed forrestoration last year andwill be displayed in theLouisiana Sports Hall ofFame and NorthwestLouisiana History Museumin Natchitoches later thisyear. Full-sized replicas ofthe murals are displayed inthe African House atMelrose, and the originalmurals will be re-installedthere once that structurehas been renovated. TheAPHN is currently under-taking that major renova-tion project and is seekinggrants and gifts to aid inthe work.

The other structures onthe Melrose Plantationgrounds includeClementine Hunter’shouse, the Bindery, theWriter’s Cabin, theWeaving House, the Barn,the Ghana House, and theIce House.

Cane RiverGreen Market

The Cane River GreenMarket will open its 2015season on Saturday, April25 from 8 a.m.-noon.Natchitoches’ localfarmer’s market will fea-ture Cane River GreenMarket vendors, live musi-cal entertainment, chil-dren’s activities,and

demonstrations .Customers will be able to

choose from a wide varietyof fresh fruits and vegeta-bles, value-added productssuch as jams, jellies, bakedgoods, farm fresh eggs, andhoney, as well as handcraft-ed items including jewelry,woodwork, and candles.

Springtime Art Festivals in Natchitoches

Melrose Arts & Crafts Festival

Cane River Green Market

The 2nd Annual CaneRiver Plantation Ride, spon-sored by bike Natchitoches,will be held on May 2 andoffer three routes scenicroutes covering the CaneRiver area and a 5K and 2 Krun/walk for the non-bik-ers.

The Bike NatchitochesCane River Century Rideincludes route of 15, 25 and57 miles in length that willcover land steeped in thehistory of NatchitochesParish and offers numerousviews of Cane River Lake.Pedaling begins at 8 a.m. onSaturday, May 2. Helmetsare required for all riders

Ride organizers antici-pate between 70 and 100 rid-ers till take part in theevent.

All rides will start at theOakland Plantation inBermuda, LA, just outsideof Natchez. Registration forthe rides is $35 for adultsand $20 for anyone underthe age of 18. All registrantsprior to April 25th, are guar-anteed a ride shirt and giftbag.

The 5 K run has a $20 reg-

istration fee and registrantsby April 25th will receive ashirt. The 2K family funrun/walk is free. The runwalk will be held on thegrounds of OaklandPlantation. However, youmay register on the day ofthe ride and run beginningat 7 a.m. at the Plantation.

Participants may registeronline atwww.BIKEREG.ORG or bymail to Bike Natchitoches,1490 Hwy. 119, Natchez, LA71456.

The event is sponsored inpart by Cane River CreoleNational Historic Park, CityBank, Brookshire’s FoodStores, Bank ofMontgomery andInternational Paper.

The 15-mile bike routewill start and finish atOakland Plantation. Theroute will follow the CaneRiver National HeritageTrial and the Isle BrevelleTrail along Cane RiverLake. It will pass severalantebellum homes as well asMelrose Plantation and willcross Cane River Lake to theIsle Brevelle Trail by his-

toric St. Augustine CatholicChurch and return toOakland.

The 25-mile route will fol-low the 15-mile route pluscontinue on the MagnoliaPlantation. The tour willcross the end of Cane RiverLake and continue on theIsle of Brevelle Trail andback to Oakland Plantation.

The 57-mile route mirrorsthe 25-mile route but addsthe beautiful hilly forestscenery of KisatchieNational Forest, includingthe Long Leaf Vista Trail,before heading back toOakland Plantation. It’sdescribed as a perfect blendof Louisiana plantation his-tory and serene arborealexperience.

A free lunch will be pro-vided to riders and runnersstarting at 10:30 a.m. the dayof the event.

Proceeds from the CaneRiver Plantation will fundbike Natchitoches activities

throughout the year. BikeNatchitoches is a bicycleadvocacy group that hasworked with city and stateofficials to designate streetsand highways with bikelanes. They also promotebicycle safety education forriders and users of streetsand highways.

Bike Natchitoches spon-sors bi-monthly rides andholds youth rides on theNSU campus. They havepartnered with the CaneRiver Creole NationalHistorical Park to imple-ment a National ParkFoundation “Two Wheels toHistory” bicycle programand sponsored a centuryride during theNatchitoches Tri-Centennial Celebration lastyear.

For more informationabout the Cane RiverPlantation Ride or bikeNatchitoches, contact CareyBlanchard at 318.471.3085 orby email [email protected].

Bike Natchitoches to host May 2 Cane River Plantation Ride HISTORIC NATCHITOCHES April 2015

• Recognized in 2007 as a Preserve America Presidential Award Winner

• Listed as one of the Ten Bargain Retirement Spots by U S News & World Report

• Named as a 2006 Great American Main Street Award Winner by the National Trust for Historic Preservation

• N amed as one of the 2005 Dozen Distinctive Destination in the United States by the National Trust for Historic Preservation

www.natchitochesla.gov

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• FREE 32” remote controlled flat screen TV w/Expanded Cable, HBO, CNN, ESPN

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For 100 years prior tothe LouisianaPurchase by the UnitedStates in 1803, theCreoles of the CaneRiver Country weregreatly influenced bytheir brethren in lowerLouisiana. This wasespecially true in thetype of plantationhouses they built.

he isolation of thearea, the influence ofthe French colonialperiod-style of archi-tecture did not changein the Cane River areauntil the late 1850s.

The architecture ofthe period reflectedFrench and Spanish

traditions as well asideas imported fromthe Caribbean, wherean early marriage ofIndian and Europeancultures had givenbirth to picturesquehouses that offeredgood ventilation andample shade.

The main character-istics of the Frenchcolonial or Creolehouses were rectangu-lar shapes with raised,above-ground cellarswith the main floor onthe second level andstorage below.

A gallery on the sec-ond level was on atleast two sides or on all

four. Attics were notused for living spacebut were nearly alwaysfitted withdormers.Boxed, wrap-aroundfireplace mantels werestandard features.

The number ofrooms varied, but thefloor plan never includ-ed hallways. The small-er houses often hadthree rooms positionedside by side, while thelarger houses mighthave two parallel rowsof three rooms each. Awall of cabinets, com-monly used for storage,was usually positionedat the rear outer cor-ners of the house.

Each room on thesecond level hadFrench doors openingonto an encirclinggallery. This level wasalways the living areaand it rested on a fullbrick base usuallyraised about seven feet.

Examples of Creolearchitecture along the

Cane River Lakeinclude Oak LawnPlantation, " CherokeePlantation, Cedar BendPlantation, Beau FortPlantation, RobieuHouse and Badin-Roque House, owned bythe St. AugustineHistorical Society ofIsle Breville.

The Natchitoches meatpie is a regional dishwhose ingredients includeground beef, ground pork,onions, peppers, garlic, oil,and a pie shell.

Natchitoches meat piesare often fried in peanut oilbecause of the oil’s highsmoking temperature.

A number of restau-rants in the historic dis-trict in Natchitoches servemeat pies, and frozen piesare available from grocersin northern Louisiana.

It has a savory meat fill-ing in a crescent-shaped,flaky wheat pastryturnover. It is similar to aSpanish picadillo beefempanada. Varieties arethroughout the colonies ofthe Spanish Empire.

This meat pie is not gen-erally available from otherethnic regions ofLouisiana “ThePicayune’s Creole CookBook” published 1901 byThe Times Picayune ofNew Orleans containsnothing comparable toNatchitoches meat pies inits list of over a thousandrecipes.

Recently, Natchitochesmeat pies sold at foodbooths have become popu-lar at the New Orleans Jazz& Heritage Festival.

The recipe has evolved

over the last 300 years.Ground pork or porksausage is now blendedinto the ground beef foradditional flavor.

Onions, bell pepper andwhen used garlic and pars-ley provide aromatics.Ground black pepper andcayenne pepper are addedto get attention withoutbeing uncomfortable.

Flour is added tobrowned meat and veg-etable mixture to dry,thicken and loosely bindthe filling.

The meat filling can beused in other foods (e.g.tacos, tamales, enchiladas,stuffed bell peppers) butthe turnover crust is adefining element.

Traditional size is

approximately 4 ounce (byweight) on 5”- 6” diameterpastry dough.

The filling should bemade the day before to

allow flavors of the ingre-dients to meld.

Filling, dough and toolsshould be chilled beforeassembly. Warm filling will

cause the dough to disinte-grate.

In the first part of the20th century, meat pieswere sold from homekitchens or from carts bystreet vendors.

By 1967, Natchitochesmeat pies were produced incommercial kitchens. Now,they may be orderedonline. This progressionhas allowed more people toexperience the memorablemeat pies and their famecontinues to grow.

The Meat Pie Festival,held in September, cele-brates the Natchitochesmeat pie.

The festival draws visi-tors from around the globeto sample the tasty pies.

Meat Pie is tasty treat identified with Natchitoches

Meat pies are good eaten by themselves or with dirty rice.

FAIRFIELD INN & SUITES HOTEL TO OPEN IN NATCHITOCHES, LOUISIANA

Hotel features bold, contemporary new look & flexible design

• 74 Rooms• FREE Wi-Fi• Complimentary Hot Breakfast EVERY Morning• Outdoor Swimming Pool• Exercise Room• Valet Laundry Service• Located 5 minutes from downtown• 45 minutes from Alexandria

www.fairfieldinn.com(318)354-8007 • (800)228-2800

150 Hayes Avenue • Natchitoches, LA

FAIRFIELD INN & SUITES HOTEL TO OPEN IN NATCHITOCHES, LOUISIANA

Hotel features bold, contemporary new look & flexible design

• 74 Rooms• FREE Wi-Fi• Complimentary Hot Breakfast EVERY Morning• Outdoor Swimming Pool• Exercise Room• Valet Laundry Service• Located 5 minutes from downtown• 45 minutes from Alexandria

www.fairfieldinn.com(318)354-8007 • (800)228-2800

150 Hayes Avenue • Natchitoches, LA

Creole Architecture and the influences from Creole Culture

In April, newNatchitoches Art Guild(NAG) member, LovanThomas and veteran mem-ber, Char White, willexhibit works on theguild’s new “SpotlightWalls.”

With limited galleryspace, the NAG limits itsmembership to 28 exhibit-ing artists. A new programwill allow non-memberswho qualify to exhibittheir art without theresponsibility of member-ship.

Two spaces called“Spotlight Walls” in thecenter of the gallery willbe reserved for this pur-pose. Member artists whohave the need of addition-al show space can alsoreserve these walls. Thereare still slots available for2015. For information callthe gallery at 352-1626.

In the early 1980s agroup of likemindedfriends decided to discussand practice their love forart. This informal gather-ing soon grew into theNAG. After a time ofgrowth and learning,members recognized thebenefits of bringing theirart to the citizenry in theform of exhibits and dis-plays in venues providedby businesses and organi-zations. Recognizing theneed for standards, thesecharter members devel-oped a set of by-laws andpolicies. In December 1992,the doors to the perma-nent home of the guild,The Natchitoches ArtGallery, opened to the pub-lic at 584 Front St., Suite102.

Today the gallery ismaintained through cor-porate sponsorships, com-missions from the sales ofartwork, and the commit-ment of member artistswho donate time and tal-ent to keep quality art onhand for the enjoyment ofthe visitors and residentsof Natchitoches.

To further promote artin the community the NAGparticipants in other func-

tions. In conjunction with“Blooming on the Bricks,”NAG hosts “Art Along theBricks” as a free outdoorfestival with music and artactivities for children. Theevent will be March 21from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Vendorapplications can beobtained by calling thegallery.

In August, the guild con-tinues the tradition of wel-coming art to the city as it

hosts The NatchitochesArt Guild Competition andExhibition. The nationalevent draws talent fromacross the country asartists vie for a position inthe exhibit and for theprizes presented to worksdeemed “award winners”by a non-member artexpert who adjudicates theevent. In addition to themonth-long exhibition, theguild hosts a reception to

reveal and present theawards.

One of the most impor-tant fundraisers is the artauction. Members donateoriginal works and prints.Since its inception in 2011,Public ServiceCommissioner FosterCampbell donates his timeto serve as auctioneer. Theauction is scheduled forSeptember. The event isopen to the public andincludes a preview recep-tion, auction and refresh-ments.

Whether art is an inte-gral part of a person’s lifeor if one is just looking fora pleasant break in rou-tine, a walk through thegallery will fill the need. Amember artist is there tochat Sunday-Saturdayfrom 10 a.m.-5 p.m.


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Natchitoches Art Guild Gallery opens its walls to non-members

The “Spotlight Walls” in the center of the Natchitoches Art Gallery are open to members and non-memberswho qualify to display art.


Formerly the resi-dence for 10N o r t h w e s t e r n

presidents, theOld President’sCottage was reno-

vated for theA l u m n iCenter in 1984.Built in 1927 ofF r e n c hN o r m a n d yarchitecture,the buildinghas been desig-nated a nation-al landmark.

The historical signifi-cance of Cane RiverCountry is undisput-ed. Because of thisheritage, the federalgovernment chose

Natchitoches as thesite for the NationalCenter forP r e s e r v a t i o nTechnology andTraining. The OldW o m e n ’ sGymnasium, NelsonHall, has beenrestored for the per-manent headquartersof the center.

Northwestern State hasbeen dedicated to prepar-

ing teachers for careers ineducation since its found-ing in 1884. One symbol ofthat legacy is the one-roomschoolhouse, which wasthe St. Nichols School,which was established insouth Natchitoches Parishin 1906. The school was inuse until 1924 and wasdonated to NSU in 1981.

The archives ofWatson Libraryand theW i l l i a m s o nMuseum inKyser Hall exhib-

it historical hold-ings from thelocal and region-al culture.C o n t r i bu t i o n sfrom citizens andhistorians repre-sent archaeologi-cal resources ofIndian and ante-bellum influ-ences.

NSU Demonsplay SouthlandConference foot-ball at TurpinStadium.

The Wellness,R e c r e a t i o nand ActivityCenter is locat-ed in the heartof theNorthwester nState campusand providesmore than10,000 square feet ofspace with weightand cardio machines,basketball courts,

racquetball courts, anarea for aerobics, ajogging track andmore.

Northwestern StateUniversity has beenan important part ofthe Natchitoches com-munity since it wasestablished in 1884.Three columns of theBullard Mansion thatoriginally stood on thegrounds, serve as theunofficial symbol of theuniversity.

Northwestern’s students and facultyshare diverse talents in drama andart with the community.

The Hanchey Gallery oftenexhibits the best works of itsfaculty and students.

Northwestern State University Tour

Chaplin Lake furtherenhances the historiccampus that servesmore than 9,000 stu-dents.

The A.A. Fredericks Fine Arts Center regularly featuresperformances by the Natchitoches/NorthwesternSymphony Orchestra and theatre department.


MELROSE PLANTATION, 1796, is aNational Historic Landmark. Thecomplex includes the Big House,African and Yucca houses, weavingcabin and original home of primitivefolk artist Clementine Hunter. Theplantation is rich in history. and cul-ture that began with Marie ThereseCoincoin, an owner who was a freedwoman of color. The cultural high-

lights of the site were furthered during the Henry years as Miss Cammieprovided living quarters for writers. Clementine Hunter, renowned folkartist, painted here while employed as a domestic servant. Her muralsadorn the walls of the African House and her work is displayed in a gallerywithin the Big House. Melrose serves as the annual location for the MelroseArts and Crafts Festival in July. Tours are available daily.

OAKLAWNPLANTATION ,1830, is therestored home of“Steel Magnolias”author RobertHarling. Thisbousillage, three-story structuredisplays Creolearchitecture common to Cane River Country. The 680-foot oak avenue is the third longest in the state.

CHEROKEE PLANTATION, 1839, is list-ed on the National Register of HistoricPlaces and was the site of the famousBossier-Gaiennie duel, that was fought onthe savannah at the rear of Cherokee.This restored raised cottage is an impor-tant Creole structure and is often featuredduring the annual NatchitochesPilgrimage in April.

BEAU FORTP L A N TAT I O N ,1790, was built onthe former site ofFort Charles. It isan early Creole-style home and fea-tures an 84-footgallery and coveredrear patio. Many

special occasions are conducted at Beau Fort.

OAKLAND PLANTATION, 1821, now partof the Cane River Creole National HistoricPark contains the finest examples ofCreole architecture. The first cotton in thestate was planted on this plantation.

THE BADIN-ROQUE HOUSE isone of five structures of its typeremaining in the United Statesand the only one of its kind inLouisiana. Badin-Roque is listedon the National Register for his-toric places and has been nomi-nated for National Landmarkstatus. It is owned and main-tained by the St. AugustineHistorical Society.

THE ST. AUGUSTINECATHOLIC CHURCH is locatedat Isle Brevelle and was foundedand built by Augustine Metoyerand his brother Louis Metoyer in1803. St. Augustine Church is thefirst church in America estab-lished and maintained by free peo-ple of color. In 1829, when it wasblessed as a mission, it was giventhe name St. Augustine in honor

of St. Augustine. It was blessed as a church parish in 1856,and at that time, had four missions attached to it: St. Anns onOld River, St. Joseph at Bayou Derbonne, St. Anns, SpanishLake and St. Charles, Bermuda. The church was used as afilm site for Steel Magnolias.

MAGNOLIA PLANTATION,1830s, is one of only twoNational Bicentennial Farmswest of the Mississippi. Exceptfor the Big House, the complexis now part of the Cane RiverCreole National Historic Park.The original walls and founda-tion were reused after beingburned by General Banks in

1864. The two and one-half story structure has 27 rooms, including aCatholic chapel. The only cotton press still in its original location ishere along with the only row of brick slave quarters still standing inLouisiana. The plantation is closed to the public.

Auto Tour of the

Cane River


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The Historic DistrictWALKING TOUR

1. Natchitoches Visitor’s Center780 Front Street 352-8072 Monday-Saturday 9-5p.m.2. Bust of St. Denis Located on the riverside of the Front Street Circle the bust is made of bronze. Larry Crowder, of Fort Worth TX, created the sculpture. Louis Antoine Juchereau de St. Denis founded Natchitoches in 1714.3. Roque House Located on Natchitoches Downtown Riverbank the house was originally built around the time of the Lou-

architecture. 4. Beau Jardin Located on the Downtown Riverbank Beau Jardin is the city of Natchitoches’ newly created garden and water feature. It features a winding brick staircase that leads to a series of stone landings surrounded by ironwork & brick walls. A popular wedding or reception spot.5. Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Museum 800 Front Street•357-2492 This museum celebrates the athletes, artists, writers, entrepreneurs and human rights leaders who embodied northwest Louisiana’s resilient spirit.6. Bricks of Front StreetLocated all along Front Street. During the administration of former Gov. Earl Long members of the Association for the Preservation of historical Natchitoches laid over the bricks to save them.

758 Front Street 352-2525Located in the oldest town in the Louisiana Purchase this store is the oldest continuously operated hardware store in Louisiana. Features hardware, housewares, cookware and kitchen supplies, classic toys and gifts.8. Spiral Staircase701 Front Street Located behind the Prudhomme building the famous spiral staircase was built in 1853 in Bordeaux, France and shipped to Natchitoches via the Red River (Cane River Lake) in 1856. 9. St. Denis Tomb PlaqueOn the Church Street side of the building it was erected by the Daughters of the American Revolution of Loui-siana in 1936. It marks the location of the tomb of the founder of Natchitoches Louis Juchereau de St. Denis.10. Prudhomme-Roquier HouseConstructed between 1790 and 1811, this home pre-dates most other surviving buildings in downtown Natchitoches. Remodeled in1825 to resemble the Feder-al or Greek Revival style, it was originally a French Creole building.11. Old Courthouse Museum12. Bayou Amulet originally drained into Sibley Lake) into the Red River (Cane River Lake). Because of the many mules once tied along its banks the stream was named “Bayou A Mule” and was later changed to Bayou Amulet


Sally Field por-trayed M’LynnEatenton, thewarm-hearted butiron-willed motherof a young bride.

Natchitoches residents were extras, includingthe late Norm Fletcher and Lori Tate. Fletcherand Tate played the bridegroom’s parents.

Robert Harling,author of“ S t e e lM a g n o l i a s , ”played the min-ister who mar-ried Shelby andJ a c k s o nLatcherie.

Drum Eatenton(Tom Skerritt)shoots at thebirds prior to thewedding recep-tion for hisdaughter, Shelby(Julia Roberts).

Truvy’s Beauty Shop was transformedinto a Christmas wonderland as the citycelebrated its annual Christmas Festival.D o l l yP a r t o n ’ squick wita n dS o u t h e r ncharm shinein her role asTruvy Jones.

Robert Harling,author of “SteelM a g n o l i a s , ”received a staron the St. DenisWalk of Honor.Each of thestars in the fea-ture filmreceived a star.Conferring theaward wasr e n o w n e dsportsman andNatchitoches resident GritsGresham.Much of thestory came from real life, based on the sacri-fices of Harling’s sister, Susan, and mother,Margaret, in his hometown of Natchitoches.

The Steel Magnolias House on JeffersonStreet was used during filming as thehome for M’Lynn and Drum Eatenton. Itis now a bed and breakfast inn.

‘Steel Magnolias’ Tour

“Steel Magnolias” stars, from left, JuliaRoberts, Olympia Dukakis, Dolly Parton,Shirley MacLaine, Sally Field and DarylHannah, portrayed six remarkable friends inthe southern town of Chinquapin.

The actresses commented onthe strength of the charactersand the sense of communitythat drew them to their parts.Meeting many of the real-lifecounterparts of their charac-ters also contributed to theiracclaimed performances.

Produced by Ray Stark, “Steel Magnolias”was directed by Herbert Ross. VictoriaWhite was the executive producer andAndrew Stone was the associate producer.

1. St. Augustine Catholic Church, La. Hwy. 493 atMelrose, Shelby’s wedding.

2.Northwestern State University Field House, postgame interviews.

3.American Cemetery on Second Street betweenDemeziere and the railroad tracks, Shelby’s funeral.

4. Lemee House, 310 Rue Jefferson, Ouiser’s house.

5.Steel Magnolia House, 320 Jefferson, Eatenton house.

6. Trinity Episcopal Church, 533 Second St., Truvy’s church.

7. Private home, 301 Rue Touline, Mrs. Robeline’s boardinghouse.

8. Chaplin House, 434 Second St., Aunt Fern’s house.

9. Walk of Honor, corner of Second Street and Rue St. Denis.

10. Blanchard Building, 700 block of Front Street, adjacent toDucournau Square, Truvy’s No. 2.

11. Riverfront behind Roque House, 800 block of WashingtonStreet, Easter egg hunt.

12. Private home, 515 St. Maurice Lane, Annelle and Sammy’shome.

13. Private home, 453 Henry Blvd., Truvy’s house.

14. Brookshire’s, Dixie Plaza Shopping Center, 318 Dixie Plazaon Keyser Avenue, shopping with Clairee and Ouiser.

15. Natchitoches Parish Hospital, 501 Keyser Ave., baby’s birth.

16. Tauzin Plantation Home, 1950 Williams Ave., Clairee’shome.

17. Odalie Lambre-Gwinn House, 1972 Williams Ave., Shelbyand Jackson’s house.

According to availablerecords, the history ofImmaculate ConceptionChurch began in 1717, orperhaps 1716, when theFranciscan, Fr. AntonioMargil de Jesus, walked the21 miles from the SpanishMission at Los Adaes to sayMass at the French military

post in Natchitoches.Services were also held inthe home of LouisJuchereau de St. Denis,commandant of the post,and his wife, DonaManuela.

The present church wasbuilt in 1857; however, itwas not entirely completed

until 1892 when BishopDurier added the dome onthe tower, constructed thepresent sanctuary and sac-risties, added the altar andtile floor. The church wasrestored and redecorated in1955-56 when the frontvestibule and entrance wereadded.

On the south corner ofthe church is a plaque com-memorating the first publicreligious service held inNatchitoches.

The date is given as 1716;however, records now avail-able give 1717 as the date.

The Rt. Rev. Msgr. A.Piegay, Vicar General, andFr. A. Andries are buried infront of the church.

All fittings and furnish-

ings, except the pews, wereimported from France: themain altar, the hand-paint-ed Stations of the Cross, theStatue of Blessed VirginMary over the main altar,the chandeliers and the lad-der located in the choir.

The spiral staircase lead-ing to the choir is unique inthat it has no center sup-port. The wooden BaptismalFont, beneath the staircase,was handcarved in France.

Bishop Augustin Martin,the first bishop of theNatchitoches Diocese andhis Vicar General PierreF.Dicharry, are buried inthe church near the sidealtars.

Across the street are the

Rectory and the OldSeminary built in 1855 tohouse and educate seminar-ians.

The Bishop MartinMuseum is now locatedthere and is the depositoryfor early records, datingfrom 1724, and for churchartifacts including a silverbell dated 1836.

Back of the Seminary onTrudeau Street is the bish-op’s residence erected byBishop Martin.

At one time a similar butlarger edifice was directlyacross from the residenceon the corner of Second andTrudeau streets, with awide brick walk betweenthe two.


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The Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Conception; A combination of beauty & history

A walk through the Natchitoches Art Guild Gallery; Taking the tourIn the heart of the

Historic District ofNatchitoches near the cor-ner of Church and FrontStreets is “home” for mem-bers of the NatchitochesArt Guild and Art Gallery.Located in a historic build-ing, the gallery door isflanked by two large picturewindows that give a bit ofintroduction to what can befound on the inside.Member artists have inputas to which pieces go in thewindows, but the final deci-sion is left to the memberassigned the title of“Window Person.” Thisyear, Karen Terrell volun-teered for the task. Karenrefreshes the windows on amonthly basis and serves asfirst vice-president on theboard of directors.

Original artwork is dis-played the full length of thewalls in the gallery.

Disbursed among the pic-tures are pedestals display-ing various 3D pieces. Theoriginal works are changedout every two months to pro-vide a variety for the grow-ing number of locals whovisit the gallery on a regularbasis. As pieces sell, newworks replaces them. Thewall crew, led by CharlesLizyness, works hard to pre-sent each piece in its bestlight, positioning it to com-pliment the other art.

The freestanding wall inthe gallery’s center is desig-nated as the “SpotlightWall,” as it accentuates theworks displayed there. Theguild opened this wall tonon-member artists to showtheir work, for a fee, in thegallery without the respon-sibilities associated withmembership. Members whodesire extra show space canpay to reserve the space for

added artwork. TheSpotlight Walls are fullyreserved for 2015, but artistscan begin reserving thespace for 2016.

Toward the rear of thegallery is “the alcove.”Featuring a view of theoriginal brick from the oldbuilding as a backdrop forthe art. The alcove housesbins that contain prints ofworks by member artistsand the étagère’ whichholds more 3D original art.

To the right of theSpotlight Wall, the focalpiece is a spiral staircasewith a large fleur de lesgracing the top. This was agift to the guild by longtimesupporter and metal artist,Jerry Sharplin. The treadsof the staircase are used todisplay small art pieces,both originals and printsthat are aptly called “TinyTreasures.” The pieces on

the staircase and accompa-nying shelf unit are pricedat or below $40.

A round glass table holdshandmade jewelry and arack with greeting cardsfeaturing prints of originalart.

In addition to the tradi-tional canvas mediums ofoil and acrylic painting, vis-itors to the NatchitochesArt Gallery can find worksin mixed medias includingfabric collage, watercolor,oil on paper, pastel, scrollsaw, pine needle and grassbaskets, Louisiana red claysculpture, porcelain paint-ings, gourds, wire sculpture,polymer clay and photogra-phy. Several of the artistsoffer their services on com-missioned pieces for anyonewishing to commemorate apet or home.

The diversity does not end

there, but continues with avariety of styles and pointsof view from portraiture toabstract; folk art to realismand impressionism. Thereis so much to see in such asmall space, which is part ofthe reason the guild electedto employ a more informal“salon style” of display overthe more rigid “museumstyle.”

One of the greatest assetsto a gallery visitor is thatthe gallery is manned byparticipating members whoare excited to talk about theart. It is not unusual for avisitor to find an artistactively involved in a piece.

It is the guild’s hope thatvisitors develop a desire toreturn for another tour ofthe gallery to re-examine anadmired piece or to see whatwill be up for the next exhib-it.

Natchitoches, LA, March16, 2015 – Cane River NationalHeritage Area announcedMonday that preservationwork has begun on CreolePatriarch Augustin Metoyer’stomb. Located in the St.Augustine Catholic ChurchCemetery Metoyer’s tombwas in critical need of con-servation. Cane RiverNational Heritage Area isworking with St. AugustineCatholic Church to plan theconservation effort and pro-vide funding for the project.

Theodore “Teddy” Pierre, afourth-generation mastercraftsman is conducting theconservation work. A nativeof New Orleans, Teddy Pierrehas made it his personal mis-sion to save and restore thehistoric residences and land-marks that have been cher-ished by cultural connois-seurs for decades, while alsopreserving the lost art of themason. He has salvagedmulti-storied walls, chim-neys, courtyards, patios andfountains at treasured sitesthroughout the Vieux Carre’,Garden District, Uptown,Carrollton, Old Metairie andFaubourg Marigny. Pierrewill be assisted by, Stephen

Roque, a native to the IsleBrevelle community and pro-fessional contractor/mason

seeking to learn preservationtechniques.

Founded in 1803 byAugustin Metoyer, St.Augustine Catholic Churchserves as the spiritual centerand heart of the Isle Brevellecommunity. The Creole tradi-tions and practices of the IsleBrevelle community extendbeyond attending church ser-vices on Sunday. The close-knit community gathers forfairs, trail rides, candlelightvigils and plays. Music anddancing, along with story-telling are also features atalmost every gathering of theIsle Brevelle community.

St. Augustine CatholicChurch is the firstTraditional CulturalProperty to be listed on theNational

Register of Historic Placesin Louisiana and the secondin the American South.

Cane River NationalHeritage Area, Inc. is a not-for-profit organization thatmanages the congressionallydesignated Cane RiverNational Heritage Area. Itsmission is to preserve andpromote the cultural and nat-ural resources of Cane Riverand encourage economicdevelopment by strengthen-ing heritage tourism in theregion.


5362 University ParkwayNatchitoches, Louisiana 71457

PHONE 318.352.7500FAX 318.352.7500

Conservation work begins on Creole Patriarch’s Tomb

A collection of baseballssigned by slugger Mel Ott,Archie Manning’s No. 8New Orleans Saints jerseyand a souped-up FordThunderbird that becamethe fastest car in the worldin 1963 are just a few of theartifacts that make theLouisiana Sports Hall ofFame and Museum inNatchitoches an up-close,personal and unforgettablefan experience.

Housed in a dazzling $23million museum buildingdeveloped and operated bythe Louisiana StateMuseum system in part-nership with the LouisianaSports Writers Associationand the city ofNatchitoches, theLouisiana Sports Hall ofFame Museum honors theachievements of the state’sgreatest athletes.

Founded in 1959, butlacking a permanent homefor its collection of por-traits and memorabiliauntil now, the Hall hasmore than 300 men andwomen on its roster. Somecarry famous names suchas Vida Blue, EddieDelahoussaye, “PistolPete” Maravich, WillisReed and Joyce Walker, butothers are relativelyunknown today. NewOrleans-born Audrey“Mickey” Patterson, forexample, was the firstAfrican-American womanto win an Olympic medal.Visitors will see the TeamUSA jersey she wore in a200-meter dash that wonher the bronze medal at the1948 games in London.

“The main goal indesigning exhibits andselecting artifacts was toinspire people, especiallyyoung people, to thinkabout greatness,”Louisiana State Museumdirector Mark Tullos said.“Every object here tells astory. Seen together, theycreate a visitor experiencethat we hope is both uplift-ing as well as entertain-ing.”

Indeed, the museum iscrammed with fun stuff tolook at. Items on displayinclude vintage varsity let-ter sweaters, antique duckand turkey calls, a blackand gold 1967 Saints cheer-leader’s outfit, a collectionof whistles from

Louisiana’s top highschool sports coaches,hand-carved water skisbelieved to be the first toskim across Cane RiverLake and famed outdoors-man Grits Gresham’s fieldtypewriter on which hetapped out features for thenational magazines SportsAfield and Gentlemen’sQuarterly. The typewriteris among many artifactsdonated by his family forthe Grits and MaryGresham exhibit inSportsman’s Paradise, alarge gallery focused onhunting and fishing.

Two of the most spectac-ular objects on display arethe Louisiana GolfAssociation’s amateurchampionship trophy, athree-foot-high sterling sil-ver replica of theLouisiana State Capitolcommissioned in 1934, andL.W. “Knot” Farrington’sstreamlined and modifiedFord Thunderbird whichhe drove to a world speedrecord of 241.78 mph atBonneville Salt Flats inUtah in 1963. A self-taughtmechanic, Farringtonnamed his dream car“Hel’s Angel” after his wifeHelen. Now 93, Farringtonkept the car in the garageof his Metairie home until2011 when he loaned it tothe Museum for display.

Coverage of profession-al and college teamsports—football, baseballand basketball—is high-lighted with iconic uni-

forms, autographed gameballs, photographs andinteractive media captur-ing historic games andmajor players. In GreatMoments, a seven-minutevideo produced by film-makers Michelle Benoitand Glen Pitre, visitors canrelive the glory of BillyCannon’s tackle-breakingpunt return against OleMiss in 1959, WarrenMorris’ game-winninghome run for LSU in the1996 College World Seriesand Kim Mulkey’s NCAAchampionship basketballgames as a Louisiana TechLady Techster and later ashead coach for BaylorUniversity.

Touch-screen technolo-gy delivers even moresports greatness in theimpressive Hall of Famegalleries near the mainentrance. Visitors can callup life stories, career sta-

tistics and even the mostmemorable quotes of everyHall of Famer past and pre-sent.

The newest members arealso recognized with hand-painted portraits, includ-ing basketball greatShaquille O’Neal, tennisstar Chanda Rubin andnine other 2013 inductees.

The Hall opens to thepublic July 2 in a 27,000-square-foot buildingshared with the NorthwestLouisiana HistoryMuseum. Designed byTrahan Architects of NewOrleans, the buildingevokes the region’s agri-cultural heritage with sin-uous molded stone interi-ors suggesting slow-mov-ing rivers and linear earth-colored exterior claddinginspired by plowedfields.

Located at 800 Front St.,the museum is open 10 a.m.

to 4:30 p.m. Tuesdaysthrough Saturdays and 1p.m. to 5 p.m. Sundays.Admission is $5 for adults;$4 for students, seniors andactive-duty military; andfree for children 12 andyounger.

The Natchitoches prop-erty is the newest culturalattraction in the LouisianaState Museum system,which was founded in 1906with a mission to collect,preserve, interpret andpresent the state’s rich his-tory and cultural and artis-tic achievements.

The Louisiana StateMuseum system includeshistoric properties in NewOrleans—including theCabildo, Presbytere, OldU.S. Mint, Madame John’sLegacy and 1850 HouseMuseum—as well as muse-ums in Baton Rouge,Thibodaux and Patterson.


La. Sports Hall of Fame offers unforgettable sports history experience

Designed by Trahan Architects of New Orleans, the new 27,500 square foot museum complex evokes the region’sheritage with linear earth-colored exterior cladding inspired by plowed fields sinuous molded stone interiors sug-gesting slow-moving rivers. Credit: Photo courtesy of Trahan Architects.

5335 Hwy. 6 West Natchitoches, LA 71457

Tel: (318) 214-0700 Fax: (318) 214-9721

• 25” Remote Control Expanded Cable TV with HBO, CNN, ESPN • Suites Include Microwave, Refrigerator and Coffee Maker • Complimentary Continental Breakfast • Shoney’s and McDonald’s Nearby • Free Highspeed Wireless Internet Service • Outdoor Swimming Pool • Non-Smoking Rooms • 24 Hour Front Desk • Queen Size Beds • Free Local Calls • Meeting Room • 70 Rooms

With vibrant exhibitshoused in a strikingexample of contempo-rary architecture, theLouisiana StateMuseum’s NorthwestLouisiana HistoryMuseum in Natchitochesbrings 3,000 years of his-tory forward to theunique cultural tradi-tions that survive—andthrive—in the regiontoday.

Encompassing flat, fer-tile river valleys andpine-forested uplands,northwest Louisiana hasbeen a cultural cross-roads since pre-Columbian times. Fromtheir homelands alongthe Red River, CaddoIndians traded withtribes as far away asMexico and the GreatPlains and, beginning inthe 1600s, with Spanishand French explorers.

A distinctive Creoleculture developed inNatchitoches, founded in1713 as the first perma-nent European settle-ment in Louisiana. Freeand enslaved Africansleft a strong imprint onthe region’s architec-ture, language and art.Meanwhile, traditionalSouthern folkwaysevolved in small commu-nities living close to theland and coping with theboom-or-bust cycles ofthe farming, timber andpetroleum industries.

“This museum tellsthe story of how diversepopulations cametogether to create a richand vital regional cul-ture,” Louisiana State

Museum director MarkTullos said. “It also cele-brates the life stories ofartists, writers, entre-preneurs, human rightsleaders and others whoembody the region’sresourceful and resilientspirit.”

The Great Womenexhibit, for example,profiles novelist KateChopin, conservationistCarrie Dorman, arts andliterature patronCammie Henry andpainter ClementineHunter, who is also rep-resented by 12 originalworks of art.

Visitors will find a fas-cinating array of arti-facts, paintings, pho-tographs, maps, books,furniture, householdgoods, farm implements,

textiles, weapons andother materials—manyloaned by local collec-tions. Specific artifactsinclude 18th centuryreligious medals, forged-iron equestrian gearfrom Los Adaes—a for-mer capital of Texas,Spanish mission andtrading post—and a vin-tage gasoline pump,advertising signs andconsumer products fromthe typical early 20thcentury plantation store.And to represent north-west Louisiana’s earliestcivilization, the StateMuseum commissionedthe noted contemporaryCaddo potter JeraldineRedcorn to create threehand-coiled, wood-firedclay vessels in the archa-ic “Natchitoches

engraved” style. The Northwest

Louisiana HistoryMuseum opened July 2,as part of a $23-million,27,000-square-foot muse-um complex shared withthe Louisiana SportsHall of Fame. Designedby Trahan Architects ofNew Orleans, the build-ing evokes the region’sagricultural heritagewith sinuous moldedstone interiors suggest-ing slow-moving riversand linear earth-coloredexterior claddinginspired by plowedfields.

The history museumhas 3,500 square feet ofexhibits arranged inseven major themes.Living Traditions, forexample, explores pre-sent-day handcrafts, cui-sine, social customs andflourishing subculturessuch as the Cane RiverCreole community ofIsle Brevelle.

Eye-popping graphicsand a seven-minutevideo by documentaryfilmmakers MichelleBenoit and Glen Pitre

enhance the visitor expe-rience.

Located at 800 FrontSt., the museum is open10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.Tuesdays throughSaturdays, and 1 p.m. to 5p.m. Sundays.Admission is $5 foradults; $4 for students,seniors and active-dutymilitary; and free forchildren 12 and younger.

The Natchitochesproperty is the newestcultural attraction in theLouisiana State Museumsystem, which wasfounded in 1906 with amission to collect, pre-serve, interpret and pre-sent the state’s rich his-tory and cultural andartistic achievements.

The Louisiana StateMuseum systemincludes historic proper-ties in New Orleans—including the Cabildo,Presbytere, Old U.S.Mint, Madame John’sLegacy and 1850 Housemuseum—as well asmuseums in BatonRouge, Thibodaux andPatterson.

-LouisianaTravel.com-


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History museum highlights Creole rural life

A vintage gasoline pump, advertising signs and consumer products from the typical early 20th century plantation store andoriginal paintings by folk artist Clementine Hunter illustrate rural life in northwest Louisiana.

Melrose is one of theunique plantations of theold South, its career mea-sured, not by years, but bygenerations. Its story willendure, for it is recorded notonly in fiction and firesidelegend, but on the indeliblepages of history.

The Association for thePreservation of HistoricNatchitoches has undertak-en the careful restoration ofthe eight structures compos-ing the Melrose complex.

In 1971, in the interest ofmaintaining Melrose as amonument to Louisiana his-tory, Southdown Land Co.,which had acquired theplantation, conveyed the six-acre site and complex ofbuildings to the Association.In 1974, the Cane River plan-tation was declared aNational HistoricLandmark.

The story of romanticMelrose Plantation beginswith the legend of MarieTherese Coincoin, who wasborn in 1742, a slave in thehousehold of LouisJuchereau de St. Denis, thefirst commandant of thepost at Natchitoches.

Marie Therese becamethe matriarch of a family of14 children—four black and10 of Franco-African blood—and the founder of a uniquecolony of people.

Along with several of herchildren, she was sold toThomas Pierre Metoyer, wholater freed her and eventual-ly all her Metoyer children.Between 1794 and 1803, sheand her sons received a num-ber of land grants, the landsforming Melrose Plantation

being recorded in the nameof her son Louis.

Descendants of theMetoyers live along the rivertoday, a people proud of theirheritage and culture.

It was at Melrose that theMetoyers built the YuccaHouse, the African Houseand other structures. It musthave been a tremendousundertaking for them toclear the land, build roadsand fences and raise indigo,tobacco, cotton and othercrops to achieve a successfulplantation operation.

Yucca (c.1796), the origi-nal main house at Melrose,incorporated local materialsexclusively-heavy, hand-hewn cypress beams,uprights and sleepers, andwalls made of mud from theriver bottoms, mixed withdeer hair and Spanish moss.

The African House(c.1800), a strange lookingconstruction reminiscent ofthe straw-thatched hutsfound in the Congo, wasbuilt as a combination store-house and jail for rebelliousslaves.

The Big House was con-structed on the Melrosegrounds about 1833, aLouisiana-type plantationhome, the lower floor ofbrick, the upper story ofwood. Twin hexagonalgarçonnieres and a kitchenwing were added later by theHenry family.

In the economic upheavalof the 1840s, the plantationpassed to white ownership. Itwas bought by Hypolite andHenry Hertzog, who, in turn,lost it in the aftermath of theCivil War. In 1884, the planta-

tion was acquired by JosephHenry.

At the turn of the century,Melrose became the home ofJohn Hampton and CammieGarrett Henry, the latterknown affectionately as“Miss Cammie” to her CaneRiver friends. In the succeed-ing years Miss Cammie’spatronage of the arts andpreservation of local arti-facts made Melrose justlyfamous. Mrs. Henry replant-ed and extended the planta-tion gardens, rescued thecolonial buildings, revivedlocal handicrafts and accu-mulated her famous libraryof Louisiana books andmaterials.

Artists and writers wereinvited by Mrs. Henry to stay

as long as they wished, aslong as they were workingon some creative project.Among the many who visit-ed and worked at Melrosewere Erskine Caldwell,Alexander Woollcott,Alberta Kinsey, CarolineDormon, Rose Franken,William Spratling, GwenBristow, Ross Phares andRuth Cross. One warmly

remembered personalitywho wrote for years atMelrose was Lyle Saxon,whose “Children ofStrangers” portrays theCane River area.

Melrose is one of theattractions on the annualTour of Historic Homes thesecond weekend inNovember.

Unique, romantic story unfolds at MelroseApril 2015 HISTORIC NATCHITOCHES

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APRIL MAY JUNE17th-18th Natchitoches Jazz/R&B Festival - Music festival showcasing jazz, rhythm & blues, country and rock-n-roll on the Downtown Riverbank. $ www.NatchJazzFest.com

18th-19th Melrose Arts & Crafts Festival - Over 100 vendors will be showing and selling their original paintings, jewelry, stained glass, and many more. $melroseplantation.org

25th Cane River Green Market - Pick up fresh produce, baked goods, homemade jams, jelly, salsa and more on the Downtown Riverbank. Free. 318-352-2746CaneRiverGreenMarket.com

Each Saturday Cane River Green Market - Pick up fresh produce, baked goods, homemade jams, jelly, salsa and more on the Downtown Riverbank. Free. 318-352-2746CaneRiverGreenMarket.com

1st-2nd Sale on the Trail Flea Market - Homeowners and business owners will hold yard sales, flea markets, festivals, trade shows and sidewalk sales along the EI Camino Real de Los Tejas National Historic Trail from Natchitoches, LA to Crockett, TX.800-259-1714

23rd Fleur de Lis Arts & Crafts Show - A wide variety of unique, hand-made items from more than 100 artists indoors at the Natchitoches Events Center. Free. 318-352-6068

Each Saturday Cane River Green Market - Pick up fresh produce, baked goods, homemade jams, jelly, salsa and more on the Downtown Riverbank. Free. 318-352-2746CaneRiverGreenMarket.com

5th-6th Cookin’ on the Cane BBQ Competition - The cook-off is open to profes sional and non-professional BBQ cooks. This is an IBCA qualifying event. 318-332-1470 NatchitochesJaycees.com

12th-14th Girls Getaway Weekend- Grab some girlfriends and head to spend the weekend together in Historic Natchitoches, “Steel Magnolias” style! $ 318-652-7078 NatchitochesHDBA.org

25th-27th LA Sports Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony & Events - Since 1972 Natchitoches has been home to the Sports Hall of Fame. Each June new members are inducted & recognized for their achievements in sports. $ 318-238-4522

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ecognized for their e inducted & rarachievements in sports. $ 318-238-4522

25th-27th LA Sports Hall of emony & Fame Induction Cer

Since 1972 Natchitoches has been home to the Sports Hall of Fame. Each June new members

ecognized for their achievements in sports. $

Life’s Great At Super 8Free Continental BreakfastHBO, Color TV with Remote CntrolRefrigerators/Microwaves Available42 Rooms/Deluxe Suites available! - Parking For 18Wheelers/Large RV’s Located Five Minutes FromNSU, Ten Minutes From Historical District

Close to Several Fine Dining Establishments (Mariners, Pirogue’s)Major Credit Cards Accepted, AAA, AARP, VIP Discounts Welcomed!

Located Highway 1 Bypass, Natchitoches, LA

Call (318) 352-1700 or Toll Free 1-800-800-8000 For Reservations

Have an event you would like to see listedhere.

Call today!

318-352-3618

flown over natchitoches. historic natchitoches april...

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