Natchitoches, Louisiana

The city of Natchitoches (pronounced {{IPA|}}) is the parish seat of Natchitoches Parish, in the US state of Louisiana. As of the 2000 census, the city had a total population of 17,865.

History

Natchitoches was established in 1714 by Louis Juchereau de St. Denis. It is the oldest permanent settlement within the borders of the 1803 Louisiana Purchase.

Related Topics:
1714 - Louis Juchereau de St. Denis - 1803 - Louisiana Purchase

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Natchitoches was founded as a French outpost on the Red River for trade with Spanish-controlled Mexico, with the French presence beginning as early as 1699. The settlement's site was established near a village of Natchitoches Indians.

Related Topics:
Red River - Mexico - 1699 - Natchitoches Indians

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

After the Louisiana Purchase, Natchitoches experienced a population boom, and several plantations were built along the river. The river eventually changed its course, bypassing Natchitoches and cutting off its lucrative connection with the Mississippi. What was once known as the Red River is now Cane River Lake, a 30-something mile body of water that runs from the city’s downtown historic district through Plantation Country.

Related Topics:
Plantations - Cane River Lake

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~