Louisiana history, music mix with outdoor fun in Webster Parish

Named after Daniel Webster, Webster Parish was formally created in 1871 with land taken from Claiborne, Bossier, and Bienville parishes. The parish seat was established in Minden, the largest community.

Minden today is known for its historic downtown with the original brick streets, antiques shops, and quaint restaurants. Nearby, the beautiful historic residential district features more than 70 historic properties within walking distance of downtown, many on the National Register of Historic Places.

Springhill, the second largest community in Webster Parish, is known as home to the famous Lumberjack Festival held in early October. This annual festival draws thousands of people to experience timber sports competitions inspired by the area’s timber related heritage. It is also the home of the fully restored Spring Theatre offering to guest the opportunity to experience first run movies in an old time theater with the largest screen in North Louisiana.

Visit the Germantown Museum and enjoy the Bluegrass Festival in September. In April, dance to the music Scotland during the Scottish Tartan Festival in Minden.

Experience duck hunting on a fully camouflaged houseboat with Houseboat Adventures Guide Services 318.458.4680 or www.redriverhouseboats.com or bass fishing with famous Bass Master, Homer Humphrey as your personal guide (318) 371.2020, or canoeing down Bayou Dorcheat with Norris Outfitters (318) 949-9522.

After a peaceful morning on our beautiful waterways, have thrilling night at Champion Park Speedway, open Friday and Saturday nights. This is stock car racing at its finest (318) 371-0077 or www.championparkspeedway.net.

Webster Parish is proud of its history and offers over 200 historic sites including 20 listed with the National Register of Historic Places. Spend the night at the Yellow Pine Inn in Sibley, listed on the National Register (318) 377-3600. These historic sites, along with other tourist attractions, are identified on a detailed map inside our Webster Parish brochure.

For more information or a brochure call (888) 972-7474 or go to www.visitwebster.com.