Fort Jesup State Historic Site
See this historic fort, whose first commander was future president Zachary Taylor.
Fort Jesup State Historic Site sits deep in the rural countryside between the Louisiana Purchase’s oldest city, Natchitoches, and the trophy fish-rich waters of Toledo Bend Reservoir. Especially for those interested in American military history, it offers insights into a nation that 150 years ago was facing enormous growing pains as it headed west.
After the 1803 Louisiana Purchase, the United States’ western borders were not clearly defined. The U.S. claimed eastern Texas, and the Spanish claimed western Louisiana. The area became known as the Neutral Strip, an infamously lawless region that led to Fort Jesup’s founding in 1822.
Over the following 25 years, Fort Jesup became an important outpost. Soldiers at the fort maintained peace along the border and caught fugitives and also performed more practical tasks such as conducting land surveys and building roads.
Meanwhile, thousands of Texas-bound settlers passed through Fort Jesup during a time of upheaval that ended in 1845 when the U.S. wrested Texas from Mexico. The following year, with Texas under U.S. control, Fort Jesup was no longer needed and was abandoned.
Visitors today can learn much more about the Neutral Strip and Fort Jesup’s role in Louisiana history through guided tours of the grounds and in the visitors center. See the reconstructed officers’ quarters and the fort’s original kitchen, both decked out in period-appropriate decoration that evokes life on the frontier.
While in the area, stop by North Toledo Bend or South Toledo Bend state parks for recreation on the water. Then head to nearby Natchitoches to visit the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame & Northwest Louisiana History Museum and grab a delicious Natchitoches meat pie.
Visiting Fort Jesup State Historic Site
When is Fort Jesup State Historic Site open?
The museum at Fort Jesup State Historic Site is open Friday–Sunday, and the grounds are open Wednesday–Sunday, except Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day. Hours are 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
How much does it cost to get into Fort Jesup State Historic Site?
Admission to Fort Jesup State Historic Site is $6 per person ages 7-61, $4 for seniors 62 and older, and free for children 6 and younger.
Where is Fort Jesup State Historic Site located?
Fort Jesup State Historic Site is located at 32 Geoghagan Rd. in Many.
