Evangeline Parish’s 100^th birthday celebration last Saturday  was a big success according to organizers.  The centennial had cool fall weather attracting hundreds of people from near and far from all over Evangeline parish.

    Former Governor Edwin Edwards and his wife Trina Edwards were there to sign his new book.

    For the first time in over 35 years, the bell in the cupola from the original courthouse was rung in honor of the centennial. Also the bronze statue of Evangeline  was unveiled to the crowds. Mrs. Emilie Frazer  of Mamou was the model of the Evangeline statue. The introduction of the oldest citizens in the parish including our parish’s oldest citizen, “Notto” Thomas who is 102 years old. The centennial royalty were recognized in the various age categories.

   Camille Fontenot of the Chamber of Commerce was the emcee for the event. There were lots of  live musical entertainment all day long. Inside the courthouse, visitors enjoyed a slice of the huge centennial cake and got to see the original silent movie of “Evangeline” starring Delores Del Rio on big screen tv.

    Annette Johnson , President of the Rotary Club of Ville Platte displayed the time capsule that will be buried in the next few weeks for 50 years.

    KVPI was there broadcasting the event live .