Christmas cheer was in evidence throughout the Northwestern State University campus as the Natchitoches Historic Foundation held its Christmas Tour of Homes at the NSU campus Thursday, Dec. 6. The tour included President Maggio’s home, the Phi Mu house and the NSU Alumni Center. Students from NSU’s superb School of Creative and Performing Arts serenaded the visitors with a variety of Christmas songs.
The Tour of Homes will continue Dec. 13th, 14th and 15th! T
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2018
5-7:30 PM
President and Mrs. Chris Maggio invite you to a special night of Christmas magic at Northwestern State University. Join the Maggios at the President’s Home as you are welcomed to the historic campus, founded in 1884. Walk past the three remaining columns of the Bullard Mansion, a symbol of the university, as well as the Sorority House and the Creole Heritage Center. It was built in 1832 and was a convent for a time around 1856. While you tour the area, be sure to ask about the Legend of Isabella! The convergence of three streets, just yards for the President’s home was the site of St. Denis’ Vacherie. This site was founded in 1700 by St. Denis and Bienville. The Old President’s Home, built in 1927, is now the home of the Alumni Center. If you’re lucky, you may be treated to a pop-up performance by the excellent Creative and Performing Arts department as you stroll through the candlelit campus.
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2018
5-8 PM
Few things are better than Natchitoches at night during the Christmas season! Showing true Southern hospitality are Laureate House, Good House, and Bayou Amulet House, where French and Spanish traders used this area as a meeting point. Laureate House, Good House, and Bayou Amulet house are all located on Poete Street. Laureate House was built in 1840 and contains a cellar that was connected to the bayou. The house was restored in the 1950’s. Bayou Amulet House was built in the 1850’s and is surrounded by gardens. Poete Street is a lovely walking area with festive decorations!
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 15, 2018
1-4 PM
Come and enjoy historic Natchitoches all dressed up for the holidays! Step back in time to
experience life in historic Natchitoches. Our downtown area is home to some fabulous stories and beautiful holiday décor. We invite you to step into The Cunningham Law Office, now the Natchitoches Historic Foundation office, to hear about small business life and home life in the late 1800’s. Trinity Episcopal Church boasts the story of the Fighting Bishop. Emma ‘s Cottage features an extensive collection of nutcrackers! Join us to hear this fascinating tale! Construction of the Old Courthouse began in 1896. Let’s find out if the old legends are correct… did hangings take place near the windows so that the public could see or behind the courthouse?
Tickets will be available at the Natchitoches Convention and Visitor Bureau – 780 Front St. Suite 100 each day of the tour, online at http://www.natchitocheshf.com, and at houses on tour each day of the tour. Tickets are $20/person. Children 12 and under are free.
