Special to BIZ. Magazine
SHREVEPORT, La. — There are moments in a city’s life when history comes into sharp focus — when the weight of the past meets the hope of the future in a single afternoon. That moment came on July 1 as civic leaders, longtime residents, and downtown champions gathered inside the historic Greater Shreveport Chamber of Commerce building for Celebrate Downtown Legacy, an event hosted by the Shreveport Downtown Development Authority (DDA) to honor the city’s 190-year journey.
The event marked three significant milestones:
- The 190th anniversary of the Caddo Treaty
- The 40th anniversary of the 1985 Sesquicentennial celebration
- The official launch of the 10-year countdown to Shreveport’s 200th birthday in 2035
Beyond the history, the day was also about legacy — honoring long-standing downtown businesses and individuals whose lifelong contributions have shaped Shreveport’s story.
“To see generations come together in a historic space, to honor those who’ve poured so much into this city, and to witness the standing ovation for Mayor Hussey — it reminded us all what community really means,” said Cedric B. Glover, Executive Director of the Shreveport DDA. “Shreveport’s legacy is alive because its people still care.”
Honoring the Institutions That Endure
The Downtown Legacy Awards recognized foundational institutions that have shaped downtown through faith, service, commerce, and civic leadership:
- Church Legacy Award: First Methodist Church (downtown since 1845)
- Government Award: Caddo Parish Government (serving the region for 180+ years)
- Organization Award: YMCA of Northwest Louisiana (established in the 1860s)
- Business Award: Southwestern Electric Power Company (SWEPCO) (operating downtown since 1912)
Representatives from each organization accepted their awards with pride and renewed commitment to the city’s future.
Celebrating Two Lives of Devotion
Two individuals were honored for their extraordinary and enduring presence in downtown life:
- John T. Cox Jr., attorney at Blanchard, Walker, O’Quin & Roberts — 55 years practicing law downtown
- Dr. Will K. Andress, music and arts leader at First Methodist Church — 50+ years of service
Their contributions are proof that the heart of downtown is not just in its buildings — but in its people.
Century-Strong Commitments
Eight downtown institutions were also honored for maintaining continuous presence and service in downtown Shreveport for over 100 years:
- Holy Trinity Catholic Church – Since 1858
- Holy Cross Episcopal Church – Since 1861
- Antioch Baptist Church – Since 1866
- Greater Shreveport Chamber of Commerce – Since 1910
- Cook, Yancy, King & Galloway – Since 1914
- Querbes & Nelson Insurance – Since 1914
- Scottish Rite Cathedral – Since 1917
- Blanchard, Walker, O’Quin & Roberts – Since 1917
A Moment That Moved the Room
The most emotional moment came when former Mayor John B. Hussey was named the Grand Honoree of the event. Hussey, who served from 1982 to 1990, was the visionary behind Shreveport’s 1985 Sesquicentennial — an eleven-month celebration that unified the city and instilled pride across generations.
When his name was announced, the room rose to its feet. The applause was long and heartfelt. Speakers including Judy Williams, Scott Hughes, and former Bossier City Mayor Don E. Jones recalled Hussey’s leadership and legacy with warmth and humor. Current Mayor Tom Arceneaux presented an official City Proclamation, calling Hussey his mentor. A second proclamation was delivered by Parish Commission President Stormy Gage-Watts and District 3 Commissioner Victor Thomas.
A Reception of Reflection
Following the ceremony, guests enjoyed a reception catered by Honey Boo’s Catering, filling the Chamber’s historic foyer with laughter, conversation, and stories passed across generations.
As Shreveport looks ahead to its 200th anniversary in 2035, Celebrate Downtown Legacy served as more than just a history lesson. It was a heartfelt tribute — a reminder that the city’s greatest strength lies in those who serve, preserve, and believe in its future.