Historic Old LSU Site in Pineville Unveils New Interpretive Signage, Thanks to LSU

ALEXANDRIA - The Old LSU Site, located on the present-day grounds of the Alexandria Forestry Center (AFC) in Pineville, celebrates the installation of a new interpretive sign that provides guests with a detailed history of the cherished historical landmark and one of the most popular walking trails in Rapides Parish.

Nestled on a piney hill on Highway 71 North, across from the Veteran's Administration (VA) Hospital, the site holds deep historical significance as the original location of Louisiana State University's campus. The AFC, which houses the headquarters for Kisatchie National Forest and offices for U.S. Forest Service Research & Development and state and private forestry, has overseen the care and preservation of this site since the land was donated by the VA in 1963.

Completed in November 1859, the original "LSU" campus opened in January 1860 under the leadership of Major William Tecumseh Sherman as the Louisiana State Seminary of Learning & Military Academy. The institution initially enrolled 19 cadets, growing to 73 before being temporarily closed due to the Civil War in June 1861. After reopening in 1862, the school continued operations in Pineville until November 1869, when it relocated to Baton Rouge and was renamed Louisiana State University in 1870.

In 2005, through a partnership between Kisatchie National Forest, LSU, and the Rapides Foundation, a walking trail, interpretive signage, and 'ghost walls' outlining the original campus building footprint were constructed to enhance public engagement. However, with the signage nearing 20 years old, local civic leaders and historians, including Michael Tudor, Paul Price, and Michael Wynne, approached Kisatchie National Forest and LSU Alexandria (LSUA) about updating the site. In response, Kisatchie National Forest's heritage and recreation staff collaborated with these historians to design a new sign, which LSUA Chancellor Paul Coreil secured funding for through the LSU Foundation and LSU President Bill Tate. The new sign, unveiled last month, features an updated illustration of the original LSU campus building and has been met with significant enthusiasm.

"With LSU's origin deeply rooted right here in Central Louisiana, it is only fitting that we do everything possible to make sure everyone continues to know and appreciate that the LSU flagship campus got its start in Pineville, LA," said Paul Coreil, LSU of Alexandria Chancellor. "All of us who work within the LSU system know we stand on the shoulders of giants who knew the importance of education for all citizens and were instrumental in establishing the first beautiful LSU campus in the central part of the state."

Mike Tudor, who facilitated the effort to install the new sign, noted, "The new interpretive sign featuring a graphic representation of the original seminary structure is the result of many visitors to the site asking 'What did it look like?' This sign is the product of two years of work by local history enthusiasts Paul Price and Michael Wynne. And, a special thanks is owed to the undaunted efforts of Dr. Helmer to bring this sign to reality."

While the new signage has been a great success, additional work is needed to preserve and enhance the site further. Planned improvements include updates to the trail, parking lot, and additional interpretive signage, as well as broader site preservation efforts. Organizations interested in contributing to the ongoing renovation efforts are encouraged to contact Dr. Matthew Helmer, Heritage Program Manager for Kisatchie National Forest, at [email protected].

Written by Adam Lord with Matthew Helmer

Photo credit - LSUA Division of Strategic Communications