Alexandria in Rapides Parish, Louisiana — The American South (West South Central)
Rapides Parish Governors
Photographed By Lee Hattabaugh, November 17, 2010
1. Rapides Parish Governors Marker
Joseph Marshall Walker (1784-1856), a Bayou Rapides cotton planter, was governor 1850-53 -- the first to be installed in the newly-designated Baton Rouge capital. During his administration improvements were made in water and railway transportation, telegraph lines built, levees and drainage improved and a state banking system established.
Thomas Overton Moore (1804-1877), a Bayou Robert planter, was governor 1860-64, including the two-months period of independence when Louisiana seceded from the Union but had not joined the Confederacy. During his term the capital was twice moved to escape the Federal troops' invasion.
James Madison Wells (1808-1899), a Bayou Boeuf plantation owner, was elected lieutenant governor of federally-occupied Louisiana in 1864 and served as governor from 1865 to 1867. He sought reconciliation between Unionists and Secessionists.
Newton Crain Blanchard (1849-1922), born and reared on Bayou Jean de Jean, was governor 1904-08. His administration was known for progressive reform.
Erected by City of Alexandria, Louisiana.
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Agriculture • Communications
this page online
Location. 31° 18.706′ N, 92° 26.649′ W. Marker is in Alexandria, Louisiana, in Rapides Parish. Marker is at the intersection of Main Street and Murray Street, on the left when traveling west on Main Street. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Alexandria LA 71301, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Old Rapides Bank Building (a few steps from this marker); City Of Alexandria Post Des Rapides (within shouting distance of this marker); The Rotary Club of Alexandria, Louisiana (within shouting distance of this marker); Pinckney Benton Stewart Pinchback (within shouting distance of this marker); Thomas Courtland Manning (within shouting distance of this marker); Alexandria (within shouting distance of this marker); Alexander Fulton Park (within shouting distance of this marker); Red River (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Alexandria.
Also see . . . List of Governors of Louisiana - Wikipedia. (Submitted on November 27, 2010, by Bill Pfingsten of Bel Air, Maryland.)
Photographed By Lee Hattabaugh, November 17, 2010
2. Rapides Parish Governors Marker
Photographed By Lee Hattabaugh, November 17, 2010
3. Rapides Parish Governors Marker
Credits. This page was last revised on November 21, 2019. It was originally submitted on November 23, 2010, by Lee Hattabaugh of Capshaw, Alabama. This page has been viewed 1,232 times since then and 32 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3. submitted on November 23, 2010, by Lee Hattabaugh of Capshaw, Alabama. • Bill Pfingsten was the editor who published this page.
