Interstate 49 North - Natchitoches to Stonewall

Interstate 49

The city of Natchitoches was the first permanent settlement within the Louisiana Purchase. Founded in 1714, the city began as a trading post along the Red River near a village of Natchitoches Indians. Several plantations sprung up along the river, fueling the growth of the city. However as time progressed the Red River changed its course, shifting eastward away from the city. What was the river became Cane River Lake, a body of water stretching from Downtown to the plantations.1

Natchitoches is known as the "City of Lights". During the Christmas season the annual "Turn on the Holidays!" celebration takes place. Began in 1927 with the stringing of lights along Front Street, the city added fireworks to the annual festivities by the 1930s. Parades and other entertainment activities followed at the popular regional event.2

i-049-north-shreveport-la
i-049-la

References:

  1. City of Natchitoches web site. http://www.ci.natchitoches.la.us
  2. Natchitoches Holiday History. https://www.natchitocheschristmas.com/ history Natchitoches Christmas Festival of Lights web site.
  3. End of US Highway 371 USEnds.com.

Photo Credits:

Connect with:

Page Updated Wednesday June 28, 2023.