As Halloween approaches and the veil between the past and present feels thinner, there’s no better time to explore the rich history embedded in Natchitoches, Louisiana. The American Cemetery, esteemed as the oldest cemetery in the Louisiana Purchase, stands as a testament to the state’s rich tapestry of history. This sacred ground offers visitors a unique journey through time. Today, the cemetery welcomes the public for walking tours of the gravesites, providing an opportunity to stroll through the past and present of life in early Louisiana. Upkeep of the gravesites is a labor of love by a volunteer organization that has maintained the city-owned grounds for more than a century.
Table of Contents
The Historical Overview of American Cemetery
Origins on a French Colonial Fort Site
The American Cemetery is established on the grounds of a former French colonial fort in Natchitoches. The earliest marked grave dates back to 1797, but it’s believed that burials occurred even earlier. This suggests that the cemetery is not only the oldest in the Louisiana Purchase but also an essential link to the European heritage of the region.
“Well, the oldest grave that we have marked is 1797, but we think there’s gravestones or burials that would have been well before that,” explains Payne Williams, a local historian and caretaker of the cemetery.
The Oldest Cemetery in the Louisiana Purchase
Recognized as the oldest European cemetery within the vast territory acquired in the Louisiana Purchase, the American Cemetery initially served as the final resting place for the town’s earliest French residents. Over the centuries, it has evolved into a communal space where people of all creeds, colors, and social statuses share common ground in death.
A Labor of Love: The American Cemetery Association
The Williams Family Legacy
The upkeep of the cemetery is a labor of love managed by the American Cemetery Association, a dedicated group of volunteers formed in 1904. Payne Williams, whose great-grandmother Eliza Payne Williams was a former president of the association, continues his family’s commitment to preserving this historical site.
“We are working up a sweat, but it’s worth it to keep this piece of history alive,” says Williams, reflecting on the efforts to maintain the cemetery.
Notable Figures Interred at the American Cemetery
Dr. John Sibley: Revolutionary War Soldier and Indian Agent
One of the cemetery’s most significant figures is Dr. John Sibley, a Revolutionary War soldier and Indian agent appointed by President Thomas Jefferson. Tasked with studying the Native American tribes before the Louisiana Purchase, Sibley’s detailed reports were vital to understanding the region’s cultures.
“He was writing letters back to President Jefferson before the Louisiana Purchase, in which he was explaining about the area, the various Indian tribes, the cultures, the food,” shares Williams.
Upon his death, Dr. Sibley donated the land that became the American Cemetery, cementing his legacy within the community.
The Russell Family: Confederates of the Civil War
The cemetery is also the final resting place for members of the Russell family, who served in the Confederacy during the Civil War.
“They were members of the Confederacy, and they’re buried here,” notes Williams, highlighting the cemetery’s connection to pivotal moments in American history.
The Tucker Family: Tragic Losses
Walking through the cemetery, visitors encounter the poignant story of the Tucker family. Several graves mark the resting places of Tucker children who died before the age of two in the late 1800s.
“I think we counted at one point maybe up to eight or nine of the family members that had died at a young age. It just shows you how tough life was back in the day,” reflects Williams.
Mayor Theodore Edward Pierson: Assassinated Leader
Among the notable figures interred is Theodore Edward Pierson, a former mayor of Natchitoches who was assassinated in 1922 by a disgruntled landowner.
“He found Mr. Pierson on, I think it was St. Denis Street, and shot him,” recounts Williams, shedding light on the turbulent times of early 20th-century politics in the region.
John Gideon Lewis: A Monument of Respect
Perhaps one of the most remarkable graves belongs to John Gideon Lewis, born in Toronto in 1851. An influential African American leader, Lewis founded the local chapter of the Prince Hall Masons and established a newspaper serving the community. His mausoleum—the only one in the cemetery—stands as a testament to the profound respect he earned.
“For this gentleman who was Black to have the only mausoleum in the cemetery obviously shows the respect that he had from the entire community,” emphasizes Williams.
The American Cemetery Today
A Place of Reflection and History
The American Cemetery remains a place where visitors can reflect on the past and learn about the region’s history. From humble headstones to elaborate monuments, each marker tells a story of the individuals who shaped Natchitoches and Louisiana.
“Some people find cemeteries creepy. I find them fascinating as time capsules of history,” remarks a visitor, capturing the sentiment many feel when exploring the grounds.
Walking Tours and Self-Guided Maps
Open to the public daily from dawn to dusk, the cemetery offers self-guided walking tours. A map is available at the Second Street entrance, highlighting significant graves and monuments.
Capacity and Preservation Efforts
With approximately a couple thousand burials, the cemetery is nearing capacity.
“It’s gotten to the point where if it’s not closed, it’s very close to being closed… At this point, it’s pretty much sold out,” explains Williams.
The focus now is on preservation, ensuring that this historic site remains a vital part of the community for generations to come.
The Cemetery in Popular Culture
“Steel Magnolias” Filming Location
In 1989, the American Cemetery gained national attention when it was featured in the funeral scene of the movie “Steel Magnolias“, which was filmed in Natchitoches.
“This plaque marks a popular spot to stop and look around. It was the scene of a funeral from the 1989 movie ‘Steel Magnolias’,” notes Williams.
This connection to popular culture has drawn movie enthusiasts to the site, adding another layer to its rich history.
Conclusion
The American Cemetery in Natchitoches is more than just a burial ground; it’s a testament to the enduring spirit and diverse history of Louisiana. Each grave represents a thread in the intricate tapestry of the state’s past, offering invaluable insights into the lives of those who came before us. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a genealogist, or a traveler seeking a meaningful experience, the cemetery provides a profound connection to the past and a place for reflection.
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