By Ken Grissom

t_news@bellsouth.net

BREAUX BRIDGE – In 1799, a pioneer named Firmin Breaux built a footbridge across Bayou Teche to connect lands he owned on both sides. Other people used it, too. They called it “Breaux’s Bridge.”

In 1817 Firmin’s son, Agricole Breaux, built a new bridge strong enough for oxen and loaded wagons. Commerce flourished and put Breaux Bridge on the map.

The village that became the city emerged from the wooded banks of the bayou when Scholastique Picou Breaux, Agricole’s widow, began selling lots around 1829.

It all came to fruition in 1859 when the Louisiana Legislature incorporated Breaux Bridge as an official municipality.

Next year, the City of Breaux Bridge will celebrate its 150th birthday. And it’s no coincidence that the Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival, known around the world as a music venue, will be celebrating its 50th anniversary. The festival grew out of the town’s centennial celebration in 1959.

Here’s what’s on tap so far:

•January – Opening Ceremonies.

•April – “Plant the Town Red,” a beautification campaign in association with the “Blooming on the Bayou” event and featuring mass plantings of red salvias on private and public properties.

•May – Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival.

•September – An historical walking tour and historical exhibits.

•September – “The Bridge Bash” featuring a repainting of the iconic crawfish signs by local artist Darryl “Demo” Demourelle.

•October – History Week in local schools.

•November – “Collage” Arts and Cultural Festival.

•Humane Society Santa Paws Parade.

The Breaux Bridge Area Chamber of Commerce is seeking corporate sponsors for these events.