NEW EXHIBIT CREOLE ORIGINS: CANE RIVER DIASPORAS, 1770-1830 TO OPEN AT THE
LOUISIANA SPORTS HALL OF FAME & NORTHWEST LOUISIANA HISTORY MUSEUM IN NOVEMBER
NATCHITOCHES, La. – The Cane River National Heritage Area and University College London (UCL) is proud to announce the upcoming opening of the highly anticipated exhibition Creole Origins: Cane River Diasporas, 1770–1830, presented for the first time at the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame and Northwest Louisiana History Museum in Natchitoches. The result of a two-decade collaboration between the Cane River National Heritage Area, University College London (UCL), and the National Parks Service, the exhibit offers an in-depth exploration of the Cane River Creole culture, chronicling key decades of migration, cultural development, and the legacy of this vibrant community. The exhibit opens to the public on Friday, November 22, 2024.
“I’m excited the Natchitoches community and visitors alike will have the chance to see these rare artifacts. We know how important northwest Louisiana is to the history of our state. Through this exceptional partnership, artifacts and historical records never before assembled will help uncover the origins and evolution of Creole identity in Louisiana,” said Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser.
Artifacts on display include hand-forged iron tools and intricately woven Native American and African baskets from the Cane River Creole National Historical Park. Creole architectural fragments and colonial pottery unearthed during archaeological excavations across the Cane River region offer further insight into the area’s rich cultural tapestry. Of note is a carved bone disc adorned with African-derived spiritual symbols, a remarkable find that speaks to the enduring influence of African traditions. These objects, alongside historical documents, provide a compelling glimpse into the daily lives of the early Cane River inhabitants, including enslaved Africans and the indigenous Caddo people, both of whom played a pivotal role in shaping the region’s history.
Key cultural heritage partners, including the Cane River Creole National Historical Park, the Cammie G. Henry Research Center, and the Williamson Museum at Northwestern State University of Louisiana, have generously loaned significant artifacts to the exhibit. Their contributions create a dynamic, immersive experience that highlights the spirit and influence of the Cane River Creole community during a transformative period in American history.
In addition to highlighting the Creole community’s resilience, the exhibit delves into the broader cultural interactions between French, Spanish, African, and Native American groups, including the Caddo people, who inhabited the region long before European colonization. By examining the experiences of enslaved Africans and their descendants, such as Marie-Thérèse Coincoin, the exhibit sheds light on the evolution of landownership and cultural identity in the Cane River area.
“This exhibition is the culmination of more than two decades of archaeological excavations and research truly bringing the history of this region to life,” said Rebecca Blankenbaker, Executive Director of Cane River National Heritage Area. “Through artifacts and stories, visitors will gain a deeper understanding of how this unique Creole community emerged, survived, and thrived over generations.”
The exhibition will be on display from November 22, 2024, through March 15, 2026. A grand opening celebration takes place on Friday, November 22, 2024, from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. The community is invited for an evening of history, culture, and celebration as the exhibit is unveiled. The event will feature local artists and musicians demonstrating the cultural traditions of the region. It is free and open to the public.
The Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame and Northwest Louisiana History Museum is located at 800 Front Street in Natchitoches and is open 10:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday. School groups are welcome.
Visit LouisianaStateMuseum.org for more information.
About Cane River National Heritage Area
The Cane River National Heritage Area is dedicated to preserving and promoting the unique cultural and historical resources of the Cane River region. Through partnerships and community outreach, the organization works to protect the legacy and traditions of the Cane River people for future generations. For more information, visit CaneRiverNHA.org
