News Summary
Shreveport, Louisiana, commemorates 190 years since the Caddo Treaty was signed in 1835, acknowledging the city’s indigenous heritage. A celebration, organized by the Downtown Development Association, recognized local institutions and launched a 10-year countdown to the city’s Bicentennial in 2035. Despite ongoing litigation concerning Fair Grounds Field, city officials stress the importance of revitalization efforts. The event also marked the loss of prominent figures in the community, highlighting the enduring impact of dedicated individuals.
Shreveport, Louisiana is marking a significant milestone with a celebration of 190 years since the signing of the Caddo Treaty on July 1, 2025. The treaty, which was signed in 1835, involved the Caddo Nation exchanging approximately 1,000 acres of land for around $30,000, along with goods and horses. This historical event honors the indigenous heritage and the beginnings of what would develop into the city of Shreveport.
A special event organized by the Downtown Development Association took place on Tuesday, recognizing local institutions and businesses that have significantly contributed to the community over the years. Among the honorees were Shreveport’s First Methodist Church and the downtown YMCA, as well as several century-old businesses that have stood the test of time. This celebration not only acknowledges the past but also sets the stage for the city’s future.
The Tuesday event also marked the beginning of a 10-year countdown to Shreveport’s Bicentennial, which is set for 2035. City officials and residents alike are encouraged to participate in the planning and celebration of this landmark anniversary. John Hussey, the first mayor under the new strong mayor-council form of government, was honored at the celebration. At 91 years old, Hussey expressed his anticipation for the 2035 Bicentennial celebration, underscoring the importance of community involvement in such historic acknowledgements.
Mayor Tom Arceneaux made headlines at the event by addressing an ongoing lawsuit between the city and Friends of Fairgrounds, LLC. Although the city’s policy is to refrain from commenting on active litigation, the mayor felt it necessary to respond due to recent statements regarding the revitalization of Fair Grounds Field, a former sports venue. In October 2022, the city had taken steps to halt the demolition of Fair Grounds Field and subsequently canceled a previously planned $200 million entertainment project.
The Friends of Fair Grounds Field, LLC, filed a lawsuit against the city, expressing concerns over potential risks associated with demolition, including exposure to histoplasmosis due to bat guano droppings. The group criticized the city’s refusal to engage in discussions about revitalization unless the lawsuit is withdrawn. However, Mayor Arceneaux pointed out that there has been no progress on the specific conditions necessary for any revitalization proposals.
There exists a widely held consensus in the community regarding the need to pursue revitalization options for Fair Grounds Field, emphasizing improvements to infrastructure as a priority for the area. The road ahead for Shreveport involves collaboration and strategic planning to address both historical values and modern needs.
In addition to the historical celebrations, the community mourns the loss of prominent figures. Judy Gallagher Durham, the former Chief Administrative Officer of Shreveport, passed away at age 73 following a brief illness. Durham was notable for being the first woman in the CAO role, recognized for her contributions to city governance and her dedicated service to the community.
Another loss felt in the community is that of Emily Ann Wile Hussey, the wife of former Mayor John Hussey, who died at age 78 after a battle with lymphoma. Emily was a noteworthy figure in the local arts scene and various community organizations, known for her humanitarian efforts and commitment to improving the lives of others.
Funeral services for Emily Hussey are scheduled to take place at B’Nai Zion Temple, followed by burial at Forest Park Cemetery. These losses remind the residents of Shreveport of the enduring impact that dedicated individuals can have on their community.
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Additional Resources
- KTBS: Shreveport Celebrates Milestone
- Shreveport Times: Mayor Arceneaux’s Statement on Fair Grounds Field
- Shreveport Times: Former Shreveport First Lady Dies
- Wikipedia: Shreveport
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Shreveport
Author: STAFF HERE SHREVEPORT WRITER
The SHREVEPORT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREShreveport.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Shreveport, Caddo Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mudbug Madness Festival, Red River Revel Arts Festival, and Independence Bowl. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Shreveport-Bossier Chamber of Commerce and Shreveport Regional Arts Council, plus leading businesses in gaming, healthcare, and energy that power the local economy such as Horseshoe Casino, Ochsner LSU Health, and Atmos Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBatonRouge.com and HERENewOrleans.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.
