This Louisiana swamp scene is unique. The building mostly hidden in the left rear of the photo is the Student Union Building on the University of Louisiana - Lafayette campus. This is downtown Lafayette.

The story is that years ago herds of buffalo stopped there under the grove of cypress trees causing a depression. Water remained in this depression. In 1920 the univerity used the area as a pig farm. Later the pigs were relocated, and the scenic area was even used for commencement excercises.

In the 1940's the agricultural department became concerned for the health of the cypress trees, and the grove was flooded creating the 2 acre Cypress Lake. The lake is home to Louisiana iris, turtles, fish, and yes alligators. ( Gators are in every body of water in the state according to
La Dept Wildlife personnel )