Baton Rouge, the capital city of Louisiana, has an interesting history behind its name. The origins of the name can be traced back to the 17th century, when French explorers and visitors first encountered the area. In 1699, these French visitors referred to the spot as “red stick” or “baton rouge” in French.
The name “red stick” or “baton rouge” was given to the area because of a significant landmark that stood on the river bluff. This landmark was a boundary marker pole that was stained with animal blood, giving it a reddish appearance. This red stick served as a demarcation point between the territories of two Native American tribes – the Houma tribe to the north and the Bayogoulas to the south.
It is fascinating to imagine the significance of this red stick for the Native American tribes and how it became a recognizable symbol for the area. The red stick not only represented a territorial boundary but also served as a point of reference for trading and communication between the tribes.
The Houma tribe, residing to the north of the red stick, were known for their resilience and resourcefulness. They were predominantly hunter-gatherers, relying on the natural resources of the land for their sustenance. The Bayogoulas, on the other hand, lived to the south of the red stick and were skilled fishermen and farmers.
As time went on, the significance of the red stick as a boundary marker gradually faded away. However, the name Baton Rouge stuck and became the official name of the city when it was incorporated in 1817. The city, with its rich history and cultural diversity, continues to be known as Baton Rouge to this day.
The story behind Baton Rouge’s name reminds us of the deep connections between different cultures and the influence they have on the places we inhabit. It is a testament to the rich Native American heritage that once thrived in the region and the lasting impact it has had on the city’s identity.
Baton Rouge is called Red Stick because of a boundary marker pole stained with animal blood that stood on the river bluff. This red stick served as a demarcation point between the territories of the Houma tribe to the north and the Bayogoulas to the south. The name Baton Rouge has endured over centuries and continues to represent the city’s unique history and cultural heritage.