Vidalia is named for Don Jose Vidal, (March 12, 1765 – August 22,
1828). Vidal served as the Spanish Commandant for the post of
Concord, 1798 – 1803. He also served in the Spanish Navy in the
American Revolution and as Spanish Consul in Natchez, MS. The
Louisiana legislature named Vidalia in his honor in 1870. Don Jos?
Vidal is buried in the Natchez City Cemetery.
Historically, Vidalia’s most famous event was the Sandbar Fight.
On September 9, 1827, a duel between Samuel Levi Wells, III, and
Dr. Thomas H. Maddox, took place on a sandbar near Vidalia,
Louisiana. Among the seconds and other witnesses were Major Norris
Wright of Rapides Parish and Jim Bowie, who were bitter
enemies.
The principal duelists chose their pistols, stepped 8 paces,
fired and missed. The seconds reloaded and Wells and Maddox fired
again but both were still standing. The dispute ended and the two
men shook hands and retired to the trees for some wine. After the
duelists had completed their duel of honor, shots were fired by
some of the bystanders. Two people were killed and Major Norris
Wright attacked Jim Bowie with a sword cane. Jim Bowie pulled a
knife and killed Norris Wright.
After many written accounts in newspapers across the country,
the legend was born about the fighting man and the famous weapon
was later referred to as the "Bowie Knife".
Walk along the Riverwalk and enjoy the view.
Park is CLOSED from 10 PM until 5 AM.
Magnetic keyholder with log only so BYOP. Please place back
EXACTLY as found or it may be seen.
