This is kinda funny. In 1786, Filhiol was sent to this area to scout around and find a place to start a settlement. In 1935, his report on his findings was translated into English. To say the least, he seems to have not been impressed! You can read the translation of his report here:
https://louisianadigitallibrary.org/islandora/object/oplib-orv%3A1
Ouachita Parish History Tidbits 