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Fighter Pilots, a Notorious Murder, and Midwestern Migration: Defining Moments in Southwest Louisiana's History

Southwest Louisiana is steeped in fascinating history. This is Part Two of our "Most Asked Historic Topics" series, exploring key stories that shaped the region. Let's dive in!

1. Toni Jo Henry

Fighter Pilots, a Notorious Murder, and Midwestern Migration: Defining Moments in Southwest Louisiana s History

The sensational trial of Toni Jo Henry captivated the public during the early World War II era. Convicted of murdering Joseph P. Calloway on February 14, 1940, she became the last woman executed by electric chair in Louisiana—in the basement of the historic Calcasieu Parish Courthouse on Ryan and Kirby Streets in Lake Charles. Rumors persist that her spirit still haunts the building.

2. Gerstner Field

Fighter Pilots, a Notorious Murder, and Midwestern Migration: Defining Moments in Southwest Louisiana s History

Established in 1917 as World War I's first military airfield in Lake Charles and Louisiana, Gerstner Field operated until 1921, about 15 miles southeast of the city. Thousands worked there to train 499 fighter pilots and instructors, who were deployed overseas or to other U.S. airfields.

Today, green and white Gerstner Memorial Drive signs along La. Hwy. 14 guide visitors south to Holmwood. A historical marker stands half a mile south of Holmwood on LA Hwy. 27 (Creole Nature Trail) at Old Camp Road.

3. Midwestern Migration

Fighter Pilots, a Notorious Murder, and Midwestern Migration: Defining Moments in Southwest Louisiana s History

The 1870s and 1880s brought explosive growth as railroads connected Southwest Louisiana's prairies to the state and nation. Midwestern settlers founded towns like Vinton and Iowa, introducing steel plows, harvesters, steam engines, and rice farming. They drained marshes and cultivated vast fields. Visionary promoter J.B. Watkins, through his North American Land and Timber Company, hailed the area as an untouched paradise spared by the Civil War, investing heavily in its promotion.

These stories offer just a glimpse into our region's past. Visit local museums to experience it firsthand—check https://www.visitlakecharles.org/things-to-do/history/ for details or to download the Historic Calcasieu Parish Guide. Learn more at the Calcasieu Historical Preservation Society: www.calcasieupreservation.org.


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      By Angie Manning When the Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) team set out to showcase not just the attractions of Southwest Louisiana, but the authentic feeling of experiencing this vibrant region through video, music naturally emerged as a key element. Blessed with stunning natural beauty, abundant resources, rich traditions, diverse culture, and delectable cuisine, Southwest Louisiana blends a profound sense of home with lively nightlife. Capturing this essence in a single video