Located on the Red River in northwestern Louisiana, Shreveport was once an important port. With the rise of rail transportation, river traffic ceased almost entirely. Neglected, the river silted up. By 1914, the Red River was no longer navigable and Shreveport's waterfront deteriorated. Today, the downtown and waterfront areas bustle with tourists, most of whom gamble at one of several riverfront casinos. In the distance is the twenty-six-floor Horseshoe Hotel and Casino, across the Red River in Bossier City.

Published: 28 February 2007
© 2007 David Wharton and Southern Spaces