Relocation of Vidalia

In 1938, Vidalia literally moved from the banks of the Mississippi River one mile inland to address navigation and flooding problems on the river. Two U.S. Corps of Engineers projects served as catalysts: the Giles Point Cut-off in 1935 just north of Vidalia, followed by the widening of the river between Natchez and Vidalia, then known as Natchez Gorge, and the construction of a set-back levee. Homes, offices, and government buildings were moved from Old Vidalia to New Vidalia, and more than 100 buildings were either relocated or demolished and rebuilt in the new town. Vidalia's citizens met this upheaval with strength, grace, courage, and determination.

Vidalia, Louisiana · United States