SCH to NOL

Schriever, LA witnessed brutal labor disputes between black sugar cane workers and the powerful Louisiana Sugar Producers Association. The demands for change by the distraught workers caused a racial divide amongst the locals within the community and resulted in a catastrophe, known today as the Thibodaux Massacre of 1887.

Throughout southern Louisiana, you can see many sugarcane fields along the tracks - the cane looks like huge tufts of grass, growing as tall as ten feet! Sugar cane is grown in 15 of Louisiana's parishes, mainly in the Mississippi Delta region, where the riverbank soils are especially well-suited for it.

When you get a glimpse of the Mississippi River as the train crosses the Huey Long Bridge on the west side of New Orleans, try to picture the MS river valley just 400 years ago, before the French, Spanish and Acadian settlers began to build permanent settlements on its banks.

As you look out your window, think of the fascinating construction holding this bridge up, the historical icon it is named after, and the motorists on the bridge having a speeding train pass only a few feet away.

Welcome to Louisiana, a place of rich culture and heritage. Louisiana's striking history, along with its Spanish, French, and Cajun heritage, offers you a vast array of sights, sounds, and exciting culture to learn about as you travel through the Pelican State.

In Louisiana the food and music are defining experiences for any visitor to this great state. They are much like the culture of New Orleans -a great mixture of ingredients brought together by the contributions of various ethnic groups creating exciting spicy and flavorful foods and new sounds.

As you travel through New Orleans you are experiencing a city of unique culture and traditions. A French Canadian named Sieur de Bienville started building New Orleans in 1718. Since he knew there were problems with flooding due to the low elevation, he had levees built to protect his new town.

Two National Parks celebrate New Orleans cultural history, the creation of jazz, and the natural beauty of Louisiana. These two National Parks are Jean Lafitte National Historical Preserve and New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park.