The History of Opelousas, the third oldest city in Louisiana, is more than the story of one small city -- it is a story of a way of life, of the impact of events, of patterns that may be seen all across the state and the region. Opelousas was founded in 1720 and populated by travelers, traders, Native Americans, Creoles and those of French and Spanish descent. At one time, it was the capital of Louisiana. The story of Opelousas is something that cannot be overlooked, because through it you will learn the history of many people, the creation of a cultural gumbo, and the elements of a way of life that should not be forgotten