I recently learned that I am a great great great....nephew of Col. C. H. Ardis who reportedly was one of the most successful merchants in the State of Louisiana back in the 1800's.
http://ftp.rootsweb.com/pub/usgenweb...os/ardisch.txt
There was once a water tower on Levee St. with the name "Ardis & Co." on it for many years. If anyone comes across a picture of this water tower, or any other reference to CH Ardis, please let me know! Thanks!