Cane River Reconstruction: An illustrated recreation of the Cane River and Metoyer homesite as it would have appeared during the late colonial period in the Cane River region of Natchitoches, Louisiana. This detailed rendering, created by the University College London Museum Studies Program, is based on GIS mapping and archaeological excavations of the present-day site, offering a glimpse into the landscape and architecture of this historically significant area.

Choctaw Rite of Passage Basket: A Choctaw rite of passage basket from the Cane River Creole National Historical Park collection. This intricately woven basket, used in traditional ceremonial practices, reflects the cultural heritage and craftsmanship of the Choctaw people, who played a vital role in the history of the Cane River region.

Excavations of Cane River: Archaeologists excavating a cistern at the historic Metoyer-Coincoin homesite as part of a 20-year project documenting the early years of settlement in the Cane River region. These excavations have provided valuable insights into the daily lives and infrastructure of the area's early inhabitants, including the influential Metoyer and Coincoin families.

Cane River Vodoun Disc: This disc was discovered during excavations of an enslaved dwelling along the Cane River. Adorned with African-derived spiritual symbols, this carved bone disc provides a rare glimpse into the religious and cultural practices of the enslaved African community in the region, preserving an enduring connection to their ancestral traditions.

Creole Origins: Cane River Diasporas, 1770–1830

Fri, November 22, 2024 - Sun, March 15, 2026

The Cane River National Heritage Area and University College London (UCL) is proud to announce 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. This exhibit is the result of a two-decade collaboration between the Cane River National Heritage Area, University College London (UCL), and the National Parks Service. It is hosted by the Louisiana State Museum system, which Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser oversees.

The exhibition offers an in-depth exploration of the Cane River Creole culture, chronicling key decades of migration, cultural development, and the lasting legacy of this vibrant community. Through this exceptional partnership, artifacts and historical records never before assembled together help uncover the origins and evolution of Creole identity in Louisiana. “I’m excited that the Natchitoches community and visitors alike will have the chance to see these rare artifacts,” says Lt. Gov. Nungesser. “We know how important northwest Louisiana is to the history of our state.”

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 particular 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.

Creole Origins: Cane River Diasporas 1779–1830 opens Friday, November 22 at the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame and Northwest Louisiana History Museum in Natchitoches, LA.

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.

The exhibit not only highlights the Creole community’s resilience but also 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 that truly bring 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 displayed from November 22, 2024, through March 15, 2026. The museum is located at 800 Front Street in Natchitoches and is open 10:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday. Admission to the museum is $6 for adults, $5 for students, seniors, and active military, and free for children six and younger. School groups are welcome.

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.