The Chitimacha Tribe recently celebrated its heritage in Charenton, Louisiana. Jack Darden, acting general manager of the tribe’s Cypress Bayou Casino-Hotel, said, “We’re the only tribe in Louisiana still occupying a portion of its original land. We’re aboriginal, we’ve been here for over 6,000 years now.”
The tribe opened Bayouland Bingo in Charenton in 1988, but it was destroyed by Hurricane Andrew in 1992. The following year, the renovated hall opened with slots. It was expanded in 1995 and 1998.
Darden said, “What does this mean to us as a people? It’s allowed us to buy back some original homeland and begin to diversify our efforts by pursing economic opportunities like Raintree Market.” The tribe also opened the Trading Post near the casino, and Keta Group contractors.
The tribe’s economic pursuits have allowed it offer a school system, housing, police and fire departments, senior living facilities, scholarship programs, tribal courts, child care, a medical facility, museum and public works. “We’re a community within the community,” Darden said.
At its peak, Cypress Bayou Casino employed 1,100 people; now it has 750 workers. Darden said, “As you know, there have been some economically challenging times. Where we once were the first land-based casino, we had the market to ourselves for a long time, and through expansion it changes operations, makes it much more challenging. We have a $25 million annual payroll, and those taxes go back to state and federal government.” Darden said the casino strives to offer multiple experiences in dining, gambling, entertainment and more.
Building the hotel involved 70 percent local or state contractors, Darden noted. “We’re thankful for those who have helped us further our cause,” he said. “
