Fort St. Jean Baptiste State Historic Site
Tour a replica of the first European settlement in what would become the Louisiana Purchase.
A Glimpse Into Fort St. Jean Bapiste's History
In 1714, French-Canadian trader Louis Antoine Juchereau de St. Denis was traveling down the Cane River (formerly known as the Red River) on his way from present-day Alabama to Mexico to complete a trade mission. Along his journey, he encountered the village of the Natchitoches Indians where he had two huts constructed, which evolved into the first permanent European settlement in the territory later called the Louisiana Purchase.
A more substantial fort was constructed two years later to serve as a means of preventing Spanish soldiers from entering what was then French territory. The newly named Fort St. Jean Baptiste grew, becoming one of the most important trading centers in the Lower Mississippi Valley. Three Caddo Indian tribe were instrumental in ensuring France’s success at the fort, located in the center of present-day Natchitoches, because they formed communication networks between the French and Spanish settlers, plus other Native American groups.
In the aftermath of the French and Indian War, France ceded the Louisiana colony to Spain. Spain maintained Fort St. Jean Baptiste as a trading post, but because there was no longer need to protect a territorial boundary, the fort was neglected, eventually abandoned and, by the time the United States acquired it with the Louisiana Purchase, it was in ruins.
The Present-Day Fort St. Jean Bapiste
In 1979, Fort St. Jean Baptiste was reconstructed, just a few hundred yards from where it once stood, using local materials and many 18th-century techniques. Now called Fort St. Jean Baptiste State Historic Site, the once-remote trading post offers guided tours of the reconstructed buildings and grounds.
Special events and programs throughout the year allow visitors to experience the lifestyle and essential crafts of the time. Past programs have included candle-making demonstrations, candy tasting and crochet sessions.
Entrance fees: $4 per person; free for seniors age 62 and older, and children age 3 and under.
More Things To Do Nearby
After visiting Fort St. Jean Baptiste State Historic Site in Natchitoches, head to the historical Main Street for shopping, dining and sightseeing. In autumn, the city celebrates their famous meat pies during the Natchitoches Meat Pie Festival, while winter brings lights and holiday spirit during the annual Natchitoches Christmas Festival.
At the end of your day, rest up at the Steel Magnolia House Bed & Breakfast - the very house featured in the beloved movie.
