Background

Two hundred years ago, the area now known as the City of Baker was a wilderness within the District of West Florida. During the latter part of the 18th century, settlers ventured inland from the Mississippi River, and by the end of the 19th century, they had created a community. Originally known as Cottonville, the community was renamed in 1888 after Josephus Smith Baker (1820-1851), a prominent pioneer settler and plantation owner. The coming of the railroad in 1884 stimulated the growth of the city as a residential and agricultural center. Agriculture remained the primary source of income for the area until the 1940s.

First established in New Orleans in 1870, Leland University moved to Baker in 1923, where it operated until 1956. Primarily for African Americans, the college enrolled students of all races. Leland originated for the purpose of promoting Christian education among the people of Louisiana and adjacent states. Its aims were to prepare ministers for the work of preaching the Gospel, to educate teachers for their important field of usefulness, to train mechanics for the trades, and to qualify men and women to discharge efficiently all the responsibilities of life; thus seeking to advance religion, sound morality, intelligence, and prosperity among all classes.

Today, the city of Baker hosts a variety of historic buildings and places, including the Baker Heritage Museum, the remnants of Leland University, a one-room schoolhouse that now serves as the Chamber of Commerce building, and a school auditorium designed by the famous architect, A. Hays Town.

The Baker Buffalo Festival is held every year in September. Started in 1981, the festival was initially focused on rodeo activities. Since then, the festival has broadened its focus to schools and families. It serves as a fundraiser for Baker schools (Go Buffaloes!) and a way to increase visitors and interest in the city. Activities include a parade, the Running of the Buffaloes 5k Run/Walk, a talent contest, spelling bee, art contest, carnival rides and a buffalo wing cook-off.

Baker Heritage Museum

3 Baker Buffalo Festival

Baker Chamber of Commerce