The Project

The Natchitoches Historic Foundation and the Cane River Waterway Commission have partnered on a project to preserve and renovate one of the state’s most iconic buildings, the Roque House at Rue Beauport Riverfront on the downtown banks of Cane River Lake. The project has an anticipated cost of $1.5 million.

The NHF will mount a vigorous effort to include federal, state and other local governmental agencies, educational institutions, business and industry, civic and professional organizations, as well as individuals in a fundraising campaign to complement the CRWC support. The outreach has included dialogue with local and regional preservation and historical entities, notably the St. Augustine Historical Society, which serves the area on the south end of Cane River Lake where the Roque House was constructed.

“The Roque House is essential to the story of Cane River Lake that truly shapes the history of this area, said Cane River Waterway Commission President Jim Rhodes.

It is one of the very few structures in Louisiana remaining from days as the Louisiana Purchase was finalized and the land became part of the United States. The building remains a historic and cultural icon in remarkable condition, available for thousands of residents and visitors to appreciate, thanks to the care in the past three decades by the Natchitoches Historic Foundation.

“This project fits hand in glove with the mission of the Cane River Waterway Commission, which among our top priorities includes historic preservation relevant to the lake and its people, and celebrating our diverse and vibrant culture,” said Rhodes.

In the course of regular, routine care for the building, NHF leadership began to realize the necessity of addressing its continuing viability. The initial project focus by NHF was on restoring the house and adding a small support building, but after consultation with the City of Natchitoches and designers, the scope was expanded to include renovations to the footprint where the Pacale-Roque House stands at the north end of the downtown riverbank area.

Notably, the house is expected to be shifted so its front doors face Cane River Lake, and necessary structural fortifications will be accomplished along with landscaping and other exterior improvements.

“As the caretaking organization of the Roque House, it’s our responsibility to assure it is preserved for future generations to appreciate. Almost a half-century after it was relocated to the downtown riverbank, we recognize the need to significantly fortify the building and provide enhancements that will make it an even greater experience for visitors and local residents,” said Terri Cunningham, president of the Natchitoches Historic Foundation.

“We have begun this endeavor working to unite all of the communities that make up the very special fabric of Natchitoches Parish, so we can all share in celebrating this focal point of our history,” she said.

“We initiated the project, and we are eager to embrace everyone who has an interest in the rich history of our parish and in particular, the Roque House.”