For over 300 years, Natchitoches has been welcoming visitors to the heart of the Cane River region. Its history is also the story of the development of our nation, the challenges and successes of democracy and ever evolving American values.
With its picturesque location on the banks of the 36-mile long Cane River Lake, Natchitoches was established in 1714 and is the oldest permanent settlement within the territory of the Louisiana Purchase. Named for the Caddo Indian tribe that lived in a nearby village, Natchitoches was originally founded as a French outpost on the Red River for trade with Spanish controlled Mexico. Fort St. Jean Baptiste is a State historic site, and is a replica of the original Fort.
Today, Creole townhouses and other centuries-old buildings comprise Natchitoches’ 33-block National Historic Landmark District, one of only three such districts in the state of Louisiana. The district is anchored by Front Street, paved with weathered brick and lined with wrought-iron-laced buildings, stately live oaks, magnolia trees, shops and restaurants. - Source
Our family spent a wonderful, yet rainy, Saturday soaking in the Natchitoches Christmas experience. Despite the less than ideal weather conditions, we had an amazing time exploring the area. After the sun went down the area really became magical as the glow of hundreds of Christmas lights illuminated every store, light post and tree.
The fireworks show was really spectacular. I had quite a time trying to keep my camera dry as intermittent rain fell during the performance. I honestly didn't know quite how any of my shots would turn out due to these conditions, yet the presence of errant raindrops on my lens actually turned out to be a blessing as the light from pyrotechnics produced some fascinating effects that couldn't have been created otherwise. It really added some unearthly ambiance to what could have been some rather cliche firework images.
I spent a little over an hour this morning pouring through my images and picked out these photos. I felt that this collection of photos both conveyed the true spirit of our magical day in Natchitoches as well as a unique perspective of the annual fireworks show.
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A few weeks back our family took a trip up to Natchitoches to celebrate my wife's birthday. She was excited because she loves to wander around the old Kaffie-Frederick Mercantile Store on Front Street along the bayou in the town's historic district. The store is as close to an old fashioned mercantile as you can get with it's vintage items still on the walls and shelves. It is always a wonderful trip back in time to walk around the isles.
This past weekend our family spent the day in Natchitoches to celebrate my wife's birthday. We were surprised to discover that there was a huge classic car show going on downtown. Front Street, which runs next to the Cane River and is lined with wonderful old shops and restaurants, was a perfect location for just such an event. My wife and I have always loved old automobiles so this ended being a nice birthday surprise.
Flying Heart was something wonderful indeed. We started with the Pretzel Bites that were served with delicious Black Heart Infused Cheddar Sauce and HWY 80 Infused Ale Mustard. For the main course I chose the Carnitas Pizza by Jared which was topped with Salsa Verde, Ranch, Mozzarella, Pork Carnitas, White Onions, Cilantro and Chipotle Cheddar. I have to tell you that it was an amazing fusion that satisfied both my love of Mexican Food and my love of Pizza. I honestly can't recommend this one enough, it was absolutely delicious.
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