Alexandria History, Louisiana

Introduction to Alexandria, Louisiana

Alexandria is a city in Lousiana, United States. It is one of the principle cities of Louisiana located in the center of the state surrounded by Longleaf Pine forests. The city of Alexandria has a long history.

Alexandria was originally home to the sporting activities of the Spanish Community. Alexander Fulton was a renowned businessman granted a land from Spain in 1785. Alexandria developed as a vibrant cultural land. Thomas Harris and Fulton laid out the plan for a town and later named it Alexandria. Alexandria was incorporated as a town in 1818 and got the status of a city in 1882. Alexandria witnessed great development after it got the status of a city.

Alexandria Louisiana History – Ancient History

The original history of Alexandria is unknown to anyone but some archeological and historical findings indicate the area of Alexandria was inhabited from a long time.

Alexandria Louisiana History – Civil War

During the American Civil War, Alexandria was a quandary. It became a strategic target during the American Civil War. In 1863, Alexandria was occupied, but soon troops were withdrawn for an attack on another port. In 1864, it was again occupied by Union forces. In the same year, almost all the town was burnt leaving only a few homes. Some of the major buildings were saved from the fire including the cathedral, Shreveport and others.

History of Alexandria and Salvation Army

William Booth founded the Salvation Army about 140 years ago in England. They were motivated by the love of God and were on a mission to preach the gospel of Jesus. The Salvation Army arrived in Alexandria in 1907. Under the supervision of Cadet Captain Herbert Mercer they expanded their services throughout Louisiana. The Salvation Army with some other organizations established a spiritually moderated environment where people were able to do their religious practices.

The Salvation Army continued to fight with hunger, sin, hopelessness, poverty, nakedness and homelessness in Louisiana. It was also dedicated to help people in emergency and critical situations. They started several programs to rebuild the lives of the needy.

After the Civil War, all the public records in Alexandria were destroyed. In 1912, a municipal government was established in Alexandria headed by a Mayor. The city of Alexandria had also served as a seat of Louisiana's Eighth Congressional district.