Around Ebarb and the Toledo Bend

The Ebarb and Toledo Bend area of Louisiana has a fascinating and colorful history. Founded in 1716, the French Fort St. Jean Baptiste was the first settlement in the area, followed soon after by the Spanish Fort Los Adaes. Many have called this part of Louisiana home, including invading Spanish conquistadores, French trappers, and both Spanish and French missionaries. The area is also home to many Native American tribes who further contributed to the melting pot of customs, religions, food, and folklore that is so prevalent in the area's history.

In 2002, Mary Lucille Rivers retired after teaching in Louisiana and Texas for over 43 years. She has had a lifelong interest in history and has spent many years collecting an extensive library of pertinent information and memorabilia of the Ebarb and Toledo Bend area. She has written for the Sabine Index and her church newsletter. Travis Ebarb Jr., a direct descendant of Don Antonio Gil Ybarbo, also has a lifelong love for history, particularly relating to his heritage. He has spent many hours visiting members of the community, recording their memories, and collecting photographs and other artifacts.