Stacey Tinsley, Bossier Press-Tribune
Bossier City marked a major milestone Friday, Aug. 7, celebrating 75 years as an incorporated city while giving residents an opportunity to look back at the people, places and events that helped shape the community.
The anniversary celebration was held at the Historic Old Municipal Building in the East Bank Cultural District, where residents and community leaders gathered to recognize Bossier City’s past and look toward its future.
A special historical art exhibition at the East Bank Arts Building is part of the anniversary celebration. The exhibit features historic photographs, artwork and artifacts highlighting Bossier City’s growth through the decades, including images of familiar landmarks and pieces inspired by important moments in the city’s history.
The free exhibition opened Friday and will remain on display through Sept. 15. The gallery is open Tuesday through Saturday from noon to 5 p.m.
Rich Carroll, manager of the East Bank Arts Building and Plaza, said the city has experienced tremendous growth since becoming an official city in 1951.
“When you look at these photographs and artifacts, you realize how much this community has changed and how many people have played a part in getting us where we are today,” Carroll said. “This celebration is a way for us to remember that history while also looking forward to what Bossier City can become over the next 75 years.”
The celebration also featured several special guest speakers who offered their own perspectives and memories of Bossier City.
George Fritze, dealer operator of Red River Chevrolet, gave attendees a history lesson about the community and how Bossier City developed into the city it is today. His remarks helped connect the city’s early beginnings with the growth that followed its incorporation.
Bossier City Council President Brian Hammons spoke about the city’s continued growth and its reputation as a community that is “on the move.” He emphasized the importance of residents, businesses and community leaders working together as Bossier City continues to develop.
Don Tubbs, owner of Tubbs Hardware, brought a more personal touch to the celebration as he shared colorful memories of what he affectionately referred to as “old Bossier.” Tubbs also spoke about the Historic Old Municipal Building and its place in the community’s history.
Bossier City’s road to becoming a city began decades before the 1951 milestone. The community, which developed along the Red River, was initially known as Cane’s Landing before becoming a village in 1907 after reaching a population of 250. It later became a town in 1923.
By 1951, Bossier City had surpassed the population requirement needed to become an incorporated city. The milestone was celebrated with community festivities, including a slogan contest, flag design competition and events held at Bossier High School’s football stadium.
Seventy-five years later, the anniversary celebration gave residents an opportunity to remember where the city began while recognizing how much it has changed.
From its early days along the Red River to its growth into a community of more than 60,000 residents, Bossier City’s history has been shaped by generations of families, businesses, civic leaders and residents who have continued to build the community.
The anniversary exhibition will remain open through Sept. 15, giving residents and visitors additional time to explore Bossier City’s past and celebrate the city’s future.