Fort St. Jean Baptiste

Review & FAQ:

What is Fort St. Jean Baptiste State Historic Site?
- Fort St. Jean Baptiste State Historic Site, or Fort des Natchitoches, is located in Natchitoches, Louisiana, and is part of the Cane River National Heritage Area.
Who built Fort St. Jean Baptiste?
- The fort was built in 1716 by Sieur Charles Claude Dutisné, who was sent to Natchitoches to establish an outpost that would prevent Spanish forces in Texas from advancing into French Louisiane.
What was the purpose of Fort St. Jean Baptiste?
- The fort functioned as a trading and military outpost and became a center of economic life in the area.
When was Fort St. Jean Baptiste abandoned?
- Fort St. Jean was abandoned in 1764, when Louisiana was transferred to Spain.
Is the original location of Fort St. Jean Baptiste known?
- The exact location of the original fort is unknown. The fort was reconstructed in 1979 near the spot where it was probably located.
What activities can visitors experience at Fort St. Jean Baptiste?
- The site hosts frequent living history re-enactments with participants in period costumes, demonstrating what life was like in the 1750s.
Where is Fort St. Jean Baptiste located?
- Fort St. Jean Baptiste, 155 Jefferson St, Natchitoches, LA 71457, Phone: 318-357-3101.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Plan Your Trip