Spanish Culture

For nearly 500 years, from the time of the early Spanish explorers, through the years of Spanish colonization, to the present day, Louisiana has been richly influenced by the Spanish culture.

The Spanish were the best friends the Acadians had in the 18th century. The Spanish Ambassador in Paris, "Conde de Aranda" had the responsibility of organizing the removal of the Acadians to Louisiana.  Manuell d'Asprer, the Spanish Consul at St. Malo, negotiated detailed contracts with the French ship owners.

Bernado de Gaulves, the Spanish Governor of Louisiana, gave every Acadian family sufficient land to farm (Spanish Grants).

"Le Bon Papa", a French frigate, sailed for Louisiana on May 10, 1785 with 125 Acadians on board.  Six other ships with Acadians aboard made this historic voyage.  A total of 1624 others, including stowaways, were safely landed in New Orleans.  The last one arrived at the mouth of the Mississippi River on December 12, 1785.  This was "The Great Acadian Odyssey."