America’s National Parks, often termed “America’s Best Idea”, held celebrations across the nation as the National Park Service, founded on August 25, 1916, marked its 107th birthday. Natchitoches’ Cane River Creole National Historic Park, established in 1994, joined in the nationwide festivities with games and crafts for visitors.
Visitors were able to play cornhole and horseshoes. Youngsters of all ages were also able to draw and color buffaloes and other wildlife in a craft tent. Zydeco, a style of music native to Louisiana, played throughout the day.
The park, consisting of parts of the old Oakland and Magnolia plantations, preserves an integral part of our state and nation’s history. The park is more than buildings. It also tells the stories of the people and cultures that lived on the plantations and surrounding areas.
The park has more special events for visitors to look forward to over the next few months. Oakland Plantation will host a screening of the movie “Harriet” on September 9 at 7:30. On October 21, “History Comes Alive” at Oakland Plantation with an open house and demonstrations of blacksmithing, bousillage making and other skills from the past. There will be no cost to attend either event.
From Yosemite to Acadia, the National Park Service preserves and showcases America’s incredible natural beauty. Parks such as Independence Hall, the State of Liberty and Natchitoches’ own Cane River Creole National Historic Park preserve and interpret our nation’s history. The National Park Service is indeed one of America’s best ideas! Happy birthday.
