History
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At this site on April 26, 1804, Fort St. Jean Baptiste was one of six garrisons in Louisiana where the American flag was raised in ceremonies marking the transfer of the Louisiana Purchase. On behalf of the United States, Commissioner William C.C. Claiborne ordered Capt. Edward D. Turner to Natchitoches to take command of the Natchitoches fort from Commandant Felix Trudeau and a garrison of thirty-two Spanish soldiers. The ceremony began at eleven a.m. when the Spanish flag was lowered and the French flag raised. One hour later the French flag was lowered and the American flag was raised as soldiers saluted and guns fired.
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Natchitoches, Louisiana · United States
