Derry in Natchitoches Parish, Louisiana — The American South (West South Central)
A Very Valuable Man
Photographed By Cajun Scrambler, July 2, 2023
1. A Very Valuable Man Marker
The roar of the fire and the ring of hammers filled the air as the blacksmith moved from forge to anvil heating and shaping iron. Many African cultures had an iron-working tradition which they passed down from father to son. Plantations required craftspeople and Planters prized skilled blacksmiths. The blacksmith forged plows, hoes, horseshoes, hardware for buildings, along with other needed tools. As an important craftsperson, the blacksmith often served as a leader within the enslaved community.
This bill of sale for $600 was issued to A. LeComte in 1833 for the purchase of an enslaved blacksmith named Saturday. Blacksmiths made decorative and practical objects. The blacksmith who made this grave marker showed his skill in crafting the details of the finials.
Earthen Architecture of French Louisiana
Bousillage (boo-zee-aj) is the Louisiana French term for the earthen architecture of the Blacksmith's Shop. The mixture used in Louisiana was a Native American recipe, but the method was derived from France. Traditionally, soil was wetted and mixed with Spanish Moss, and straw. The mixture was hung on staves called barreaux (bah-roh) which support the framing.
Erected by National Park Service.
Topics. This historical marker
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Location. 31° 33.055′ N, 92° 56.535′ W. Marker is in Derry, Louisiana, in Natchitoches Parish. Marker is on State Highway 119, one mile north of State Highway 1, on the right when traveling north. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 1111 LA-119, Cloutierville LA 71416, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Meet "Jack" the Magnolia Mule (a few steps from this marker); A French Connection (a few steps from this marker); Plantation Pastimes (a few steps from this marker); Two Worlds (within shouting distance of this marker); Corn Crib (within shouting distance of this marker); Changing Residents (within shouting distance of this marker); Cash or Credit (within shouting distance of this marker); Farming Transitions (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Derry.
Photographed By Cajun Scrambler, July 2, 2023
2. A Very Valuable Man Marker
Credits. This page was last revised on July 4, 2023. It was originally submitted on July 3, 2023, by Cajun Scrambler of Assumption, Louisiana. This page has been viewed 64 times since then and 11 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on July 3, 2023, by Cajun Scrambler of Assumption, Louisiana.
