The schoolchildren of Natchitoches Parish received a unique learning experience at the annual APHN Children’s Tour of Homes Sept. 25-29.
An approximate total of 446 third graders learned about the history of historic landmarks such as the Lemee House, the Prudhomme-Roquier House, Trinity Episcopal Church, the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception and Beau Jardin/Roque House. They also stopped by the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame for a tour and City Park to listen to music by Ed Huey.
Eighth graders also had a role to play. They served as interpreters, dressed in period times as certain historic figures and discussed the history of their area with the students, from “their point of view.” They have been practicing the entire month.
This was the 21st year for the Children’s Tour of Homes. The purpose of the tours is to educate the students and inspire a new apprection of the town they live in.
“The children were very engaged in the tours,” said APHN board member Anne Stevens. “Many were curious and asked questions about the history and Natchitoches.”
This project was supported through funding provided by Cane River National Heritage Area, Inc. The Arts Council, Calico Belles and City Bank and Trust Company also contributed monies for the tour. Others that contributed goods and services was the Natchitoches Lions Club and Leo’s, Natchitoches Regional Medical Center, Natchitoches Meat Pie Company, Merci Beaucoup, City of Natchitoches, the historic sites visited and the many volunteers of APHN.
