Natchez in Natchitoches Parish, Louisiana — The American South (West South Central)
A French Connection
Photographed by Cajun Scrambler, July 2, 2023
1. A French Connection Marker
Pigeonniers (pee-zjuhn-yay) were once common on Louisiana Creole plantations. Constructed of timber framing with bousillage infill, it is one of the most direct links between French and Louisiana architecture. Originally built as coops to raise pigeons for food, these pigeon houses took on meanings as status symbols to represent high social status in both France and Louisiana.
Until the late 18th century only French landowners had the right to raise pigeons. French pigeonniers were elaborately constructed to impress onlookers and to display wealthy status. Though less ornamental than their French counterparts, their symbolism had no less meaning on the Louisiana Creole plantation landscape.
The upper story contains nesting boxes. Squabs, domesticated pigeons less than four weeks old, were tended as a delicacy for the Planter. Pigeons would perch on a shelf set below the access holes to the nesting area.
Erected by National Park Service.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Animals • Settlements & Settlers.
Location. 31° 39.907′ N, 93° 0.179′ W. Marker is in Natchez, Louisiana, in Natchitoches Parish. It can be
this page online
Regionally, this marker is in Central Louisiana. It is also in the American South, specifically in the Deep South, and in the Piney Woods. Globally, it is in North America, a Gulf of Mexico state, the Western Hemisphere, the Western World, and the Anglosphere. Historically, it finds itself in what was once New Spain, the Viceroyalty of New France, the territory of the Mississippian Culture, the Louisiana Purchase, one of the Confederate States of America, and the Antebellum South.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker: Meet "Natchez" the Oakland Mule (a few steps from this marker); Maker of Most Things Wood (a few steps from this marker); The Sound of Time (within shouting distance of this marker); Oakland Grist Mill (within shouting distance of this marker); The Enslaved Nanny's Room (within shouting distance of this marker); Corn Crib (within shouting distance of this marker); Creole Architecture (within shouting distance of this marker); Hollywood Comes to Oakland Plantation (within shouting distance of this marker). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Natchez.
Photographed by Cajun Scrambler, July 2, 2023
2. A French Connection Marker
Credits. This page was last revised on September 4, 2023. It was originally submitted on September 4, 2023, by Cajun Scrambler of Assumption, Louisiana. This page has been viewed 212 times since then and 35 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on September 4, 2023, by Cajun Scrambler of Assumption, Louisiana.
