Cane River National Heritage Area is largely a rural agricultural region with its historic plantations, distinctive Creole architecture, and multicultural legacy.
Photo by John Lees
The core of the national heritage area is south of Natchitoches, Louisiana (the oldest permanent settlement in the Louisiana Purchase Territory) between Interstate 49 and the Red River, and extends along both sides of Cane River Lake for approximately 35 miles.
Photo by John Lees
Visitors to Cane River National Heritage Area can enjoy sites along the national heritage area trail both in town and downriver.
In town sites include: * Natchitoches National Historic Landmark District * Cane River Green Market - seasonal * Fort St. Jean Baptiste * American Cemetery
Downriver: * Cane River Creole National Historical Park Oakland Plantation Unit Magnolia Plantation Outbuildings * Area plantations - public and private: Melrose Magnolia Manor House Badin-Roque House Kate Chopin House
Other sites: * Three (3) Louisiana State Historic sites: Los Adaes, Fort St. Jean Baptiste and Fort Jesup * Grand Ecore Visitors Center * Rebel State Historic Site * Adai Indian Nation Cultural Center/Museum * St. Augustine Catholic Church and Cemetery * St. Matthews High School
Bayou Amulet, Photo by John Lees Bayou Amulet originally drained Lake Terre Noire (Sibley Lake) into the Red River (Cane River Lake). more...
Ducournau Square, Photo by John Lees A carriage drive from the front to the courtyard is a feature associated with the French Quarters. more...
Fort St. Jean Baptiste, Photo by John Lees The fort evolved from a few buildings used by the 18th century trade expedition led by St. Denis. more...
St. Augustine Catholic Church, Photo by John Lees Founded in 1803 is the 1st Catholic Church established by and for people of color. more...
Did You Know?
On November 4, 1994, the United States Congress acknowledged the special qualities of this region by creating Cane River National Heritage Area and Cane River Creole National Historical Park.
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