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Oak Ridge, Louisiana

Oak Ridge is a village in Morehouse Parish, Louisiana, United States. The population was 124 at the 2020 census.

History
The earliest inhabitants of the area were different Native American societies that existed prior to European contact. Between 1540 and 1685 a multimound site with an adjoining central plaza was built. Since its archeological discovery, the area has come to be known as the Jordan Mounds. It is believed that by 1700 the site was abandoned, likely due to contact with explorers like Hernando de Soto.

Morehouse Parish was formed in 1844 after the result of an increasing population in the area. It is thought that a small farming community was formed near Oak Ridge's modern location around this time. Cedars Plantation is considered the oldest surviving structure not just in the town, but the whole parish, built in 1840. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places on May 19, 1976. It had been abandoned in 2008 after the last homeowner passed away, but in 2010 a proposal was created in order for the property to be restored.

Not much is known about the towns early history, but one surviving relic is a small wooden jail that is estimated to have been built in 1850. Simply known as the "Oak Ridge, Louisiana Jail", it is believed to be the last surviving pre-Civil War wooden jail in the state. The existence of this jail hints at the fact that Oak Ridge may have served an administrative purpose for the parish at the time. It is written that "the parish sheriff would use this jail to lock up free and enslaved men." The jail was eventually donated and now sits at the Louisiana State University - Rural Life Museum in Baton Rouge.

Oak Ridge was incorporated as a village in 1882.

The Bank of Oak Ridge opened its doors in 1910.

The towns' population peaked in 1940 at 373 individuals. Since then it has seen a consistent decline with an estimated population of only 117 people as of 2022.

Geography
Oak Ridge is located in southern Morehouse Parish at 32.62361°N, -91.77444°W (32.623659, -91.774355). U.S. Route 425 passes through the village, leading north and west 16 mi to Bastrop, the parish seat, and south 10 mi to Rayville.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the village has a total area of 0.99 sqmi, all land.

The Jordan Mounds are located one mile north of the village.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 142 people, 63 households, and 38 families residing in the village. The population density was 143.2 PD/sqmi. There were 72 housing units at an average density of 72.6 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the village was 91.55% White, 7.75% African American, and 0.70% from two or more races.

There were 63 households, out of which 28.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 57.1% were married couples living together, 4.8% had a female householder with no husband present, and 38.1% were non-families. 34.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 25.4% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.25 and the average family size was 2.95.

In the village, the population was spread out, with 24.6% under the age of 18, 4.2% from 18 to 24, 26.1% from 25 to 44, 23.2% from 45 to 64, and 21.8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 41 years. For every 100 females, there were 89.3 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 78.3 males.

The median income for a household in the village was $37,500, and the median income for a family was $70,417. Males had a median income of $75,287 versus $24,583 for females. The per capita income for the village was $25,408. There were 9.8% of families and 17.5% of the population living below the poverty line, including 17.5% of under eighteens and 33.3% of those over 64.

Notable people

 * Edwards Barham, Oak Ridge farmer and former Republican member of the Louisiana State Senate, who served from 1976-1980
 * Abner Wimberly, NFL player for the Green Bay Packers

title: Oak Ridge, Louisiana


text:
Ashland, Natchitoches Parish, Louisiana

Ashland is a village in the northernmost portion of Natchitoches Parish, Louisiana, United States. A few residences and a convenience store to the north spill over into neighboring Bienville Parish. The population was 291 at the 2000 census but declined nine percent to 269 in 2010. The median age was 45.7 years. Ashland is part of the Natchitoches Micropolitan Statistical Area.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the village has a total area of 27.1 sqmi, of which 27.1 sqmi is land and 0.04 sqmi (0.07%) is water.

Climate
Climate is characterized by relatively high temperatures and evenly distributed precipitation throughout the year. According to the Köppen Climate Classification system, Ashland has a humid subtropical climate, abbreviated "Cfa" on climate maps.

2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 194 people, 77 households, and 57 families residing in the village.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 291 people, 121 households, and 87 families residing in the village. The population density was 10.7 inhabitants per square mile (4.1/km$2$). There were 149 housing units at an average density of 5.5 per square mile (2.1/km$2$). The racial makeup of the village was 86.60% White, 10.31% African American, 2.41% Native American and 0.69% Asian. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.72% of the population.

There were 121 households, out of which 27.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 57.0% were married couples living together, 14.9% had a female householder with no husband present, and 27.3% were non-families. 25.6% of all households were made up of individuals, and 15.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.40 and the average family size was 2.88.

In the village, the population was spread out, with 21.3% under the age of 18, 8.2% from 18 to 24, 26.5% from 25 to 44, 24.7% from 45 to 64, and 19.2% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 40 years. For every 100 females, there were 98.0 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 86.2 males.

The median income for a household in the village was $23,438, and the median income for a family was $31,875. Males had a median income of $27,083 versus $23,750 for females. The per capita income for the village was $12,652. About 33.7% of families and 32.0% of the population were below the poverty line, including 38.1% of those under the age of eighteen and 30.4% of those 65 or over.

Government
The Ashland mayor is Donna Holland Horn. The village council consists of two No Party members, Juanita Calhoun and Dorie Harp, and a Republican, Terry Chesser. All of the Ashland town officials were unopposed for new terms in the primary election held on October 2, 2010.

license: Creative Commons - Attribution Share-Alike - https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/

title: Ashland, Natchitoches Parish, Louisiana


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Campti, Louisiana

Campti is a town in the northern part of Natchitoches Parish, Louisiana, United States. The population was 1,056 at the 2010 census. It is part of the Natchitoches Micropolitan Statistical Area. Campti is a flat area of mostly farmland. It is located on the eastern bank of the Red River. Considerable herds of cattle are also raised in the general area.

Etymology
Tradition maintains that the name "Campti" was derived from the name of a Natchitoches Indian chief, known to the French colonists as "Le Roi Campti" (The King Campti). Church records in Natchitoches show that a French missionary, Père Valentin, visited the community of Campti around 1745. This was the first written record of Campti during the period of French Louisiana.

History
The rural parish was developed for large cotton plantations, and a majority of the population were enslaved African Americans in the antebellum years. But by the time of the American Civil War, a number of free people of color also lived in Campti and the area. They were known to be related to several of the longtime white families, who acknowledged them, and they were generally well accepted. According to one authority on this area, they lived nearly as white. At least nine men of color, and likely more, enlisted in the Confederate Army during the Civil War and "easily entered a predominately white military company."

During the war, Union Brigadier-General A. J. Smith, with two brigades, reached Campti to assist Rear-Admiral David D. Porter's gunboats on the Red River there. Confederate Brigadier-General St. John R. Liddell's scattered troops had been harassing the Union fleet but quickly retreated as Smith's overwhelming force arrived on April 13, 1864. Smith and his men burned what was left of Campti, on April 14, 1864. The gunboats were returned safely upriver to Grand Ecore in Natchitoches Parish.

In the postwar years, cotton and agriculture continued as mainstays of the economy. Later cattle raising was introduced. Large-scale agriculture and ranching have reduced economic opportunities in the rural area. The population of Campti has continued to be majority African American, reflecting the history of its development.

Geography
Campti is located at 31.89556°N, -93.11389°W (31.895511, -93.113966).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 1.0 sqmi, all land.

2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 887 people, 427 households, and 192 families residing in the town.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 1,057 people, 385 households, and 269 families residing in the town. The population density was 1,080.2 PD/sqmi. There were 462 housing units at an average density of 472.1 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the town was 24.88% White, 74.46% African American, 0.09% Native American, 0.28% from other races, and 0.28% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.85% of the population.

There were 385 households, out of which 42.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 30.4% were married couples living together, 35.3% had a female householder with no husband present, and 29.9% were non-families. 26.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 6.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.74 and the average family size was 3.36.

In the town, the population was spread out, with 38.5% under the age of 18, 8.5% from 18 to 24, 25.8% from 25 to 44, 18.0% from 45 to 64, and 9.2% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 27 years. For every 100 females, there were 81.9 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 75.2 males.

The median income for a household in the town was $14,844, and the median income for a family was $15,781. Males had a median income of $25,750 versus $14,000 for females. The per capita income for the town was $7,219. About 47.3% of families and 45.4% of the population were below the poverty line, including 55.9% of those under age 18 and 33.0% of those age 65 or over.

In 2010, Campti had the eighth-lowest median household income of all places in the United States with a population over 1,000. The town of Campti is 75 percent African American in population.

Education
Natchitoches Parish School Board operates public schools, including Fairview Alpha Elementary School and Lakeview Junior-Senior High School.

Natchitoches Parish Library operates the Northeast Branch in Campti.

Notable people

 * Maxine Brown Russell, country singer, was born in Campti. She is a Country Music Hall of Fame inductee and performed with her siblings, Jim Ed and Bonnie, as The Browns.

title: Campti, Louisiana


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Clarence, Louisiana

Clarence is a village in Natchitoches Parish, Louisiana, United States. The population was 499 at the 2010 census. It is located some seven miles east of the parish seat of Natchitoches and is part of the Natchitoches Micropolitan Statistical Area.

History

The Harrisonburg Road or the Natchez Trace ran through the area as it crossed Louisiana into Texas to connect with the El Camino Real.

2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 326 people, 131 households, and 58 families residing in the village.

2010 census
At the 2010 census , there were 499 people, 186 households and 136 families residing in the village. The population density was 311.9 PD/sqmi. There were 204 housing units at an average density of 127.5 /mi2. The racial makeup of the village was 23.2% White, 75.2% African American, and 1.2% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.2% of the population.

There were 186 households, of which 36% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 37.1% were married couples living together, 30.6% had a female householder with no husband present, and 26.9% were non-families. 22% of all households were made up of individuals, and 9.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.68 and the average family size was 3.13.

Age distribution was 29.1% under the age of 18, 9.3% from 18 to 24, 21.6% from 25 to 44, 28% from 45 to 64, and 12.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 36.5 years. For every 100 females, there were 87.6 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 78.5 males.

At the 2000 census The median household income was $25,278, and the median family income was $25,694. Males had a median income of $24,375 versus $17,841 for females. The per capita income for the village was $13,360. About 27.9% of families and 28.3% of the population were below the poverty line, including 36.9% of those under age 18 and 40.0% of those age 65 or over.

Geography
Clarence is located at 31.82028°N, -93.02889°W (31.820143, −93.028773).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the village has a total area of 1.6 sqmi, all land.

Climate
Climate is characterized by relatively high temperatures and evenly distributed precipitation throughout the year. The Köppen Climate Classification subtype for this climate is "Cfa". (Humid Subtropical Climate).

title: Clarence, Louisiana


text:
Goldonna, Louisiana

Goldonna is a village in Natchitoches Parish, Louisiana, United States. The population was 430 at the 2010 census. It is part of the Natchitoches Micropolitan Statistical Area. South of Goldonna along Louisiana Highway 156, one may access Saline Bayou, popular for blackwater canoeing.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the village has a total area of 11.0 sqmi, all land.

2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 428 people, 146 households, and 90 families residing in the village.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 457 people, 163 households, and 131 families residing in the village. The population density was 41.5 PD/sqmi. There were 192 housing units at an average density of 17.4 per square mile (6.7/km$2$). The racial makeup of the village was 98.47% White, 0.66% Native American, 0.22% Pacific Islander, 0.22% from other races, and 0.44% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.44% of the population.

There were 163 households, out of which 39.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 63.8% were married couples living together, 10.4% had a female householder with no husband present, and 19.6% were non-families. 17.2% of all households were made up of individuals, and 11.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.80 and the average family size was 3.15.

In the village, the population was spread out, with 28.9% under the age of 18, 11.4% from 18 to 24, 25.6% from 25 to 44, 24.3% from 45 to 64, and 9.8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 31 years. For every 100 females, there were 101.3 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 94.6 males.

The median income for a household in the village was $27,500, and the median income for a family was $32,656. Males had a median income of $26,875 versus $17,000 for females. The per capita income for the village was $12,207. About 20.2% of families and 23.1% of the population were below the poverty line, including 17.7% of those under age 18 and 32.0% of those age 65 or over.

Government
The Mayor of Goldonna is Jennifer Garner Smith, a Republican. The three Aldermen are Norvel Garner (No Party), Fonda Garner (No Party), and Reed Franklin, Republican.

Education
The Goldonna Elementary/Junior High School serves pre-kindergarten through grade 8. Pupils come from as far away as the village of Ashland to the west, where the defunct Ashland High School was located.

Notable people

 * Gordon Gunter, fisheries scientist
 * Patricia Maxwell, romance novelist
 * Riley J. Wilson, politician

title: Goldonna, Louisiana


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Natchez, Louisiana

Natchez is a village in Natchitoches Parish, Louisiana, United States. The population was 597 at the 2010 census. It is part of the Natchitoches Micropolitan Statistical Area. The village and parish are part of the Cane River National Heritage Area and located on Isle Brevelle.

History
This village is one of the oldest communities in the territory covered by the Louisiana Purchase, and is part of the Cane River National Heritage Area. The Côte Joyeuse (English: Joyous Coast) area was home to the earliest French planters in Louisiana. Some of the plantations (or former plantations) in Natchez include the Oakland Plantation (1818), Cherokee Plantation (c. 1825), Oaklawn Plantation (1830), Cedar Bend Plantation (1850) and the Atahoe Plantation (1873).

The Isle Brevelle church in Natchez was established in 1803 by Augustin Métoyer and church services been held continuously since then. It is the oldest church in the United States that was founded by and for the mixed-Creole people. The church was built by sons of Métoyer and Marie Thérèse Coincoin. Because of the significance of the Créole church's history and its centrality in the life of the community, it is featured on the Louisiana African American Heritage Trail.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the village has a total area of 1.1 square miles (2.8 km$2$), all land.

2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 489 people, 253 households, and 130 families residing in the village.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 583 people, 227 households, and 140 families residing in the village. The population density was 542.9 PD/sqmi. There were 264 housing units at an average density of 245.9 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the village was 4.80% White, 91.94% African American, 1.20% Native American, 1.03% from other races, and 1.03% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.20% of the population.

There were 227 households, out of which 32.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 29.5% were married couples living together, 26.9% had a female householder with no husband present, and 38.3% were non-families. 35.2% of all households were made up of individuals, and 9.7% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.57 and the average family size was 3.42.

In the village, the population was spread out, with 31.9% under the age of 18, 11.0% from 18 to 24, 26.1% from 25 to 44, 22.3% from 45 to 64, and 8.7% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 31 years. For every 100 females, there were 93.7 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 86.4 males.

The median income for a household in the village was $16,786, and the median income for a family was $19,643. Men had a median income of $20,938 versus $13,167 for Women. The per capita income for the village was $7,625. About 31.5% of families and 39.2% of the population were below the poverty line, including 47.2% of those under age 18 and 58.1% of those age 65 or over.

Notable people

 * J. Isaac Friedman (1871–1949), politician, served in the Louisiana House of Representatives from 1908 to 1916; born in Natchez.
 * Leon Friedman (1886–1948), politician, served in the Louisiana House of Representatives, from 1932 to 1940; born in Natchez.
 * Anne des Cadeaux (unknown-1754), Native American woman from the Adays and early settler of Natchitoches, New France. Buried on Isle Brevelle.

title: Natchez, Louisiana


text:
Natchitoches, Louisiana

Natchitoches ( Les Natchitoches, ), officially the City of Natchitoches, is a small city and the parish seat of Natchitoches Parish, Louisiana, United States. At the 2020 United States Census, the city's population was 18,039. Established in 1714 by Louis Juchereau de St. Denis as part of French Louisiana, the community was named after the indigenous Natchitoches people.

The City of Natchitoches was incorporated on February 5, 1819, after Louisiana had become a state in 1812. It is the oldest permanent settlement in the land acquired by the Louisiana Purchase. Natchitoches is home to Northwestern State University. Its sister city is Nacogdoches, Texas.

Early years
Natchitoches was established in 1714 by Canadien explorer Louis Juchereau de St. Denis. It is the oldest permanent European settlement within the borders of the 1803 Louisiana Purchase. Natchitoches was founded as a French outpost on the Red River for trade with Spanish-controlled Mexico; French traders settled there as early as 1699. The post was established near a village of Natchitoches Indians, after whom the city was named. Early settlers were French Catholic immigrants and creoles (originally meaning those ethnic French born in the colony). French creoles acquired lands that were developed in the antebellum years as cotton-producing Magnolia Plantation and Oakland Plantation. Each has been preserved and is designated as a National Historic Landmark.

After the United States' Louisiana Purchase of 1803, migration into the territory increased from the US. Natchitoches grew along with the population in the parish. Initially, the Americans were primarily of English and Scots-Irish ancestry and of Protestant faith. They developed several cotton plantations along the Red River. Numerous enslaved African Americans were brought to the area through the domestic slave trade to work the cotton, and provide all other skills on these plantations, generating the revenues for the wealthy planters before the Civil War.

The United States Government established a federal fur trade factory here in 1805. It was removed to Sulphur Fork, Arkansas in 1818.

In the 1820s and early 1830s, Natchitoches also served as a freight transfer point for cotton shipped from parts of east Texas. Cotton shippers used a land route crossing the Sabine River to Natchitoches, where the freight was transferred to boats, and floated down the Red River to New Orleans.

When the course of the Red River shifted, it bypassed Natchitoches and cut off its lucrative connection with the Mississippi River. A 33 mi oxbow lake was left in the river's previous location which became known as Cane River Lake.

Civil War
During the Civil War, Natchitoches was set on fire by Union soldiers who retreated through the town after their failed attempt to capture Shreveport. Confederate cavalry pursued the fleeing soldiers and arrived in time to help extinguish the flames before the town was destroyed. Alexandria was destroyed by Union troops in 1864, but both Union and Confederate troops were responsible for severely damaging plantations along the river during the war, including Magnolia and Oakland.

Radford Blunt published the Natchitoches Republican. He was also a candidate for the state legislature. William H. Tunnard edited the paper.

20th century
As the parish seat, Natchitoches suffered from the decline in agricultural population through the mid-20th century, and grew at a markedly lower rate after 1960. The mechanization of agriculture had reduced the number of workers needed, and many moved to cities for jobs. By the early 1970s, the town's businesses were declining, along with many area farms, and buildings were boarded up.

In the mid-1970s, Mayor Bobby DeBlieux and other preservationists believed that attracting tourists to the area, based on its historic assets of nearly intact plantations and numerous historic buildings, could be a key to attracting visitors, reviving the town, and stimulating new businesses. Over the years, he worked with a variety of landowners and local people to gain support for designating a historic district in the city. He also supported making a national park out of the working area of Magnolia Plantation, which had many surviving outbuildings from the 19th century, and from Oakland Plantation, both downriver in the parish.

By the end of the 20th century, the mile-long French colonial area of downtown, which lies along Cane Lake, was designated as a National Historic District. Many buildings were adapted as antique shops, restaurants and souvenir emporiums. To accommodate tourists, the town had 32 bed-and-breakfast inns, the highest in the state. By 2018, that number had increased to 50.

The plantation country surrounds Cane River Lake. The markedly intact downriver Magnolia and Oakland plantations were designated as National Historic Landmarks, and are part of what has been developed as the Cane River Creole National Historical Park, which was authorized in 1994, with the support of US Senator J. Bennett Johnston. He was a cousin by marriage of Betty Hertzog, the last of the family to live in the great house at Magnolia.

Tours and interpretive programs at both sites continue to attract visitors, especially as they grapple with telling the difficult history of slavery and its aftermath at the plantations. They also cover the contributions of blacks and Creoles of color to the community. In April 2022, the city council added Juneteenth as an official city holiday.

Since the late 20th century, the 35-mile oxbow lake has served as the spring-break training location for numerous university crew teams, from universities such as the University of St. Thomas, Kansas State University, University of Kansas, Wichita State University, Murray State University, University of Central Oklahoma, and Washington University in St. Louis, as well as Northwestern State University. In the spring of 2018, LSU, Alabama, Texas and Georgia were also represented. Tourists interested in sports often visit in this period to watch the sports teams.

Over the years, the city and parish have improved conditions with a riverbank stabilization project and a water pump project to improve water levels in the lake. This directs water from Hampton Lake into Bayou Possiant, which feeds Cane River Lake.

In March 1965, nine children were among seventeen people killed in a natural gas pipeline explosion.

Natchitoches was the site of the 1973 plane crash that claimed the life of singer-songwriter Jim Croce. Croce had performed a concert on campus for Northwestern State University students at Prather Coliseum. He was killed less than an hour later in a plane headed to Sherman, Texas. The crash may have been a result of the pilot suffering a fatal heart attack.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 25.1 sqmi, of which 21.6 sqmi are land and 3.6 sqmi (14.21%) are covered by water.

A 35-mi-long (56 km) lake was formed from a portion of the Red River when it changed course. It is now known as Cane River Lake. The municipal water supply comes from nearby Sibley Lake, a formerly drained wetland dammed in 1962, which also offers fishing and boating.

Geology
Soils in this area are a combination of leaf mold and red clays, sand, and sediments. The area is part of the Chestnut Salt Dome.

Cityscape
Though Natchitoches has few multistorey buildings, it has retained much of its historic European-style architecture listed on the National Register of Historic Places as the Natchitoches Historic District. The city is a mesh of wrought iron, stucco, and red brick. The city still has one of the original brick streets (Front Street), which the historical society protects from alterations. The city of Natchitoches recently completed a restoration project to repair the century-old brick street. During this process, workers removed each brick one by one, numbered it, cleaned it, and then replaced it after utilities, drainage, and the foundation were repaired beneath.

Climate
Weather-wise, Natchitoches lies in a boundary region that separates the plains of Texas from the consistently humid Gulf Coast. This gives summers both heat and humidity. Winters in Natchitoches are relatively mild, with measurable snowfall once every 5–10 years. Natchitoches averages 54.93 in of rain per year. The city is in an area that frequently experiences severe thunderstorms, hail, damaging winds, and tornadoes.

2020 census
As of the 2020 United States Census, there were 18,039 people, 6,222 households, and 2,773 families residing in the city.

2010 census
As of the 2010 census, 18,323 people, 6,705 households, and 3,631 families were residing in the city. The population density was 828.5 PD/sqmi. The 7,906 housing units averaged 312.2 /mi2. The racial makeup of the city was 59.0% African American, 36.4% White, 0.5% Native American, 0.6% Asian, 0.42% from other races, and 1.5% from two or more races. Hispanics or Latinos of any race was 1.7% of the population.

Of the 6,113 households, 30.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 34.3% were married couples living together, 21.5% had a female householder with no husband present, and 40.6% were not families. About 30.8% of all households were made up of individuals, and 11.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.50, and the average family size was 3.18.

In the city, the age distribution was 23.6% under the age of 18, 27.2% from 18 to 24, 21.8% from 25 to 44, 16.0% from 45 to 64, and 11.4% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 24.5 years. For every 100 females, there were 85.0 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 80.2 males.

The median income for a household in the city was $23,261, and for a family was $30,396. Males had a median income of $28,601 versus $17,859 for females. The per capita income for the city was $12,642. About 26.7% of families and 34.8% of the population were below the poverty line, including 45.0% of those under age 18 and 19.2% of those aged 65 or over.

Native American tribes

 * Adai Caddo Indians of Louisiana
 * Natchitoches people
 * Caddo

Economy
Following continued population decline in the area, in part due to mechanization of agriculture, by the 1970s, Natchitoches had suffered an economic downturn that resulted in a 65% vacancy in the commercial district. Because of efforts to revitalize the city and emphasize its unique historic assets, as described above, vacancy is now about 1%.

The Port of Natchitoches—a river port on the Red River—is located off the eastbound part of U.S. Route 84, just outside Natchitoches. The port exports lumber from yards onsite, as forestry is a major industry in the area, as well.

Natchitoches Regional Airport serves cities (via FBO) such as Baton Rouge, New Orleans, Dallas, Houston, Little Rock, Monroe, and Shreveport. It is adjacent to Northwestern State University; together, they offer flight training. The airport is under renovation to become one of the country's most advanced non-towered airports.

The Natchitoches National Fish Hatchery is based here. They handle over six species of fish and other wildlife. The parish attracts numerous sports fishermen during the seasons.

The Natchitoches Christmas Festival is a well-known celebration of the holidays for locals. The festival is held on the river.

Since completion of Interstate 49, many business have either moved or have been built outside the city's central area. Gas stations and hotels have developed in this area and serve many of the Natchitoches Christmas Festival visitors.

In 1998, Natchitoches was named one of the top six places in the United States to retire by Kiplinger's Personal Finance Magazine.

Tourism
The Cane River National Heritage Area is a 116000 acre area which includes many sites such as Oakland Plantation, Melrose Plantation, Badin-Roque House, Magnolia Plantation, Kate Chopin House, Cherokee Plantation, Cane River Heritage Scenic Byway, Fort St. Jean Baptiste State Historic Site, National Historic Landmark District (Old Courthouse Museum, Bishop Martin Museum, Landmarks in Time Exhibit), and Los Adaes State Historic Site. Because of this richness of culture, the area is one of the destinations on the Louisiana African American Heritage Trail newly designated by the state.

Natchitoches, a popular tourism area of the state, is equipped to serve visitors with 11 national chain hotels, and 27 bed-and-breakfast inns, including the Steel Magnolia House.

Natchitoches attracts over one million visitors annually. The city is known as a retiree-friendly city. In 2006, Natchitoches was awarded the Great American Main Street Award for the effort the community has put into revitalizing and restoring much of the historic district.

The city's tourism center is the downtown river walk. This includes Front Street, which becomes Jefferson at the Texas Street light. Front Street is the jewel of the city. It overlooks the river walk and is bordered by an assortment of shops and boutiques. The city has identified this area as its historical district. The Historical Society maintains the area through regulations on changes and restorations. Natchitoches has a mini "Walk of Fame" located in the historical district of the city.

While visiting the area, tourists may notice many unusual structures; these are many of the Natchitoches Christmas Festival lights. The city recently built a small convention center located on Second Street, which holds many city events.

The Bayou Pierre Alligator Park is a major tourist attraction, where tourists may feed the alligators and dine and shop. The park teaches school children to respect nature and to conserve its many habitats. Natchitoches is home to a branch of the Kisatchie National Forest, a designation promoted by naturalist Caroline Dormon to preserve regional natural wonders.

Opened December 2005, the Natchitoches Events Center is in the Natchitoches National Historic Landmark District. Located at 750 Second Street, the facility has a 40000 sqft meeting facility, a 15000 sqft exhibit hall with three meeting rooms, a board room, and a full-sized catering kitchen.

National Guard
A Troop 2-108TH CAV is headquartered behind the local college and the airport. This unit has been deployed twice to Iraq, first as part of the 1-156TH Armor Battalion in 2004–2005, and then as part of the 2-108TH CAV SQDN in 2010. Both times, this company-sized unit deployed with the 256th Infantry Brigade.,

Arts and culture
The Natchitoches Meat Pie is one of the official state foods of Louisiana. It is known as a regional delicacy of North Louisiana. (See List of U.S. state foods.)

Natchitoches has long been known for its popular Christmas Festival of Lights which is held the first Saturday in December. The lights continue to brighten the Cane River until after New Year's Day. In 2019 the festival celebrated its 93rd year.

Colleges and universities

 * Northwestern State University
 * Louisiana Scholars' College
 * Louisiana Technical College

The Northwestern Campus is also home to the Louisiana Scholars' College, the state's designated honors college for the study of the liberal arts and sciences. As a part of its effort to become a global campus, NSU is a sister university with many universities in Asia.

Natchitoches Parish is in the service area of Bossier Parish Community College.

Public schools
Natchitoches Parish School Board operates many public schools. They include:
 * East Natchitoches Elementary/Middle School
 * George L. Parks Elementary
 * L.P. Vaughn Elementary
 * M.R. Weaver Elementary
 * NSU Elementary/Middle Laboratory School
 * Natchitoches Junior High—Frankie Ray Jackson School
 * Natchitoches Magnet School
 * Natchitoches Central High School

The city is also home to the Louisiana School for Math, Science, and the Arts, a public residential honors high school.

Private schools
St. Mary's High School is in Natchitoches.

Newspaper

 * Natchitoches Times

Radio
Natchitoches is the principal city of the Natchitoches media market for radio.

Television
Natchitoches is part of the Shreveport media market for television.

Health care
Natchitoches Regional Medical Center is a 78-bed facility that includes 45 medical/surgical beds and a 112-bed skilled nursing home. Rehabilitation treatment is at the PRISM Center for physical, occupational and speech therapy, sports medicine, industrial medicine, wound care and more. NRMC was established in 1956.

Notable people

 * Jack Berly (1903–1977), a Major League Baseball pitcher
 * Curtis Boozman (1898–1979), served two nonconsecutive terms in the Louisiana House of Representatives from Natchitoches, 1952 to 1956 and 1960 to 1964.
 * Leopold Caspari, businessman, banker, and member of both houses of the Louisiana State Legislature between 1884 and 1914
 * Joanna Cassidy, Golden Globe award-winning actress.
 * Monnie T. Cheves, NSU professor; member of the Louisiana House from Natchitoches Parish from 1952 to 1960
 * Kate Chopin, a short story writer and novelist, managed a plantation in Cloutierville south of Natchitoches in the late 19th century for a time after the death of her husband.
 * Charles Milton Cunningham (1877–1936), Natchitoches attorney, publisher of The Natchitoches Times, and member of the Louisiana State Senate from 1915 to 1922
 * Milton Joseph Cunningham (1842–1916), attorney in Natchitoches and New Orleans, state representative and state senator from Natchitoches Parish, state attorney general for three nonconsecutive terms ending in 1900, father of Charles Milton Cunningham and grandfather of W. Peyton Cunningham
 * William Tharp Cunningham (1871–1952), attorney, planter, state district court judge, state representative
 * W. Peyton Cunningham (1901–1971), attorney and member of the Louisiana House from Natchitoches Parish from 1932 to 1940
 * George Doherty was a former professional football player who was the head coach of the Northwestern State University Demons from 1972 to 1974. The athletic offices are named in his honor.
 * Caroline Dormon, a naturalist and preservationist, lived in Natchitoches Parish. She was the driving force behind the establishment of the Kisatchie National Forest.
 * Steve Dowden, former football player.
 * David Dumars, player of gridiron football
 * Joe Dumars, NBA championship-winning player and general manager for the Detroit Pistons.
 * Joseph Barton Elam, member of the United States House of Representatives from Louisiana's 4th congressional district, spent part of his childhood in Natchitoches
 * Medford Bryan Evans (1907–1989), former professor at Northwestern State University; conservative political writer
 * Dan Flores (born 1948), historian of the American West at the University of Montana in Missoula, Montana; obtained master's degree from NSU
 * Grits Gresham (1922–2008) was a nationally known sportsman, outdoorsman, author, and host of ABC's The American Sportsman television series from 1966 to 1979. A noted environmentalist, he resided on Cane River Lake.
 * Robert Harling, a playwright and Hollywood screenwriter (born 1951), is a Natchitoches native.
 * Bobby Hebert, football quarterback; New Orleans Saints Hall of Fame
 * Robert Hilburn (born 1939), biographer, and pop music critic for Los Angeles Times.
 * George W. Jack, judge from 1917 until his death in 1924 of the United States District Court for the Western District of Louisiana, based in Shreveport; born in Natchitoches in 1875.
 * Andrew R. Johnson (1856–1933), state senator from Bienville and Claiborne parishes from 1916 to 1924 and mayor of Homer, Louisiana, in the 1910s.
 * Marques Johnson, basketball player on UCLA national championship team and for NBA's Milwaukee Bucks, Los Angeles Clippers, and Golden State Warriors.
 * Pat Listach, MLB player for the Milwaukee Brewers and Houston Astros, coach and minor-league manager.
 * Jimmy D. Long is a former Democratic member of the Louisiana House of Representatives who served from the Natchitoches-based district from 1968 to 2000.
 * Vern Roberson (born 1952), NFL player.
 * Brittney Rogers (born 1982), Miss Louisiana USA 2003.
 * Henry Hopkins Sibley (1816–1886) was a Confederate general in the American Civil War who commanded in Louisiana, Texas, and New Mexico.
 * Ray Tarver (1921–1972), dentist who represented Natchitoches Parish in the Louisiana House of Representatives from 1964 to 1968.
 * Charlie Tolar (1937–2003), pro football player for Houston Oilers.
 * Trini Triggs (born 1965) is a country music singer born and reared in Natchitoches; holds occasional concerts on the Cane River.
 * A. L. Williams (born 1934), retired NSU and Louisiana Tech football coach; resided in Natchitoches, 1974–1982.
 * J. Robert Wooley (born 1953), Natchitoches native but never lived in the city; Louisiana insurance commissioner, 2000–06.

Noted events

Natchitoches was the site of a gas pipeline explosion on March 4, 1965, that killed 17 people.

In 1973, singer-songwriter Jim Croce was killed when his plane crashed as it was leaving Natchitoches Regional Airport.

Natchitoches received numerous New Orleans evacuees due to Hurricane Katrina (2005). Many college students from New Orleans were transferred to Northwestern State University to continue their education.

In popular culture
Multiple movies have been filmed here, including:
 * The Horse Soldiers (1959), starring William Holden and John Wayne.
 * Cane River (1982), Horace B. Jenkins filmed Cane River in New Orleans and Natchitoches Parish.
 * Steel Magnolias (1989), starring Julia Roberts, Sally Field, Daryl Hannah, Shirley MacLaine, Dolly Parton, and Olympia Dukakis
 * The Man in the Moon (1991), starring Reese Witherspoon, Jason London, Sam Waterston, and Tess Harper
 * 12 Years a Slave (2013), four historic antebellum plantations were used in the film: Felicity, Magnolia, Bocage, and Destrehan. Magnolia, a plantation in Natchitoches, Louisiana, is just a few miles from one of the historic sites where Northup was held. "To know that we were right there in the place where these things occurred was so powerful and emotional," said actor Chiwetel Ejiofor. "That feeling of dancing with ghosts—it's palpable."

title: Natchitoches, Louisiana


text:
Powhatan, Louisiana

Powhatan is a village in Natchitoches Parish, Louisiana, United States. The population was 141 at the 2000 census. It is part of the Natchitoches Micropolitan Statistical Area.

Geography
Powhatan is located at 31.87389°N, -93.2°W (31.874012, -93.200083). It is approximately ten miles west of the city of Natchitoches, along the Red River

According to the United States Census Bureau, the village has a total area of 0.5 sqmi, all land.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 141 people, 55 households, and 36 families residing in the village. The population density was 258.8 PD/sqmi. There were 81 housing units at an average density of 148.7 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the village was 14.89% White, 78.72% African American, 0.71% Asian, 0.71% from other races, and 4.96% from two or more races.

There were 55 households, out of which 18.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 30.9% were married couples living together, 25.5% had a female householder with no husband present, and 34.5% were non-families. 32.7% of all households were made up of individuals, and 21.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.56 and the average family size was 3.36.

In the village, the population was spread out, with 23.4% under the age of 18, 14.2% from 18 to 24, 14.2% from 25 to 44, 27.7% from 45 to 64, and 20.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 43 years. For every 100 females, there were 98.6 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 86.2 males.

The median income for a household in the village was $16,667, and the median income for a family was $17,250. Males had a median income of $12,500 versus $16,250 for females. The per capita income for the village was $9,488. There were 29.7% of families and 40.2% of the population living below the poverty line, including 64.0% of under eighteens and 17.4% of those over 64.

Climate
Climate is characterized by relatively high temperatures and evenly distributed precipitation throughout the year. The Köppen Climate Classification subtype for this climate is "Cfa". (Humid Subtropical Climate).

title: Powhatan, Louisiana


text:
Provencal, Louisiana

Provencal is a village in Natchitoches Parish, Louisiana, United States. The population was 611 at the 2010 census. It is part of the Natchitoches Micropolitan Statistical Area.

Coushatta businessman and philanthropist Edgar Cason is a former Provencal resident.

Geography
Provencal is near Isle Brevelle and El Camino Real de los Tejas National Historic Trail located at 31.65417°N, -93.20111°W (31.654131, -93.200984).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the village has a total area of 2.5 square miles (6.4 km$2$), all land.

2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 528 people, 167 households, and 67 families residing in the village.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 708 people, 273 households, and 200 families residing in the village. The population density was 287.4 PD/sqmi. There were 308 housing units at an average density of 125.0 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the village was 97.60% White, 0.42% African American, 1.13% Native American, 0.28% from other races, and 0.56% from two or more races. 1.27% of the population are Hispanic or Latino of any race.

There were 273 households, out of which 40.3% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 61.5% were married couples living together, 10.3% had a female householder with no husband present, and 26.4% were non-families. 25.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 13.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.59 and the average family size was 3.12.

In the village, the population was spread out, with 29.9% under the age of 18, 11.3% from 18 to 24, 25.6% from 25 to 44, 20.9% from 45 to 64, and 12.3% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 30 years. For every 100 females, there were 87.8 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 83.7 males.

The median income for a household in the village was $31,196, and the median income for a family was $32,625. Males had a median income of $31,389 versus $19,625 for females. The per capita income for the village was $14,842. About 7.1% of families and 9.3% of the population were below the poverty line, including 10.0% of those under age 18 and 5.9% of those age 65 or over.

title: Provencal, Louisiana


text:
Robeline, Louisiana

Robeline is a village in western Natchitoches Parish, Louisiana, United States. The population was 183 at the 2000 census. It is part of the Natchitoches Micropolitan Statistical Area.

History
Robeline was the capital of Texas for 50 years. Robeline was owned by the Spanish and a creek formed the border between Spanish Texas and French Louisiana. During 1870-1917, a railroad was built through Robeline and Marthaville, Louisiana. The town was rich with resources and money, but the railroad was abandoned in 1960, and Robeline declined. It now has a convenience store, dollar store, several churches, and considerable wilderness.

According to a 2007 report, Robeline was named one of the ten worst speed traps in the state of Louisiana. Robeline made 85.73 percent of its revenue, an average of roughly $1,517 per capita population, from fines and forfeitures in the 2005 fiscal year.

In the 1880s, Robeline had a weekly newspaper, the ''Robeline Reporter. ''

Geography
Robeline is located at 31.69083°N, -93.30417°W (31.690873, -93.304233).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the village has a total area of 1.0 square miles (2.6 km$2$), all land.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 183 people, 76 households, and 48 families residing in the village. The population density was 182.0 PD/sqmi. There were 97 housing units at an average density of 96.5 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the village was 77.05% White, 17.49% African American and 5.46% Native American. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 2.19% of the population.

There were 76 households, out of which 28.9% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 46.1% were married couples living together, 14.5% had a female householder with no husband present, and 36.8% were non-families. 34.2% of all households were made up of individuals, and 15.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.41 and the average family size was 3.13.

In the village, the population was spread out, with 25.7% under the age of 18, 6.6% from 18 to 24, 27.9% from 25 to 44, 21.3% from 45 to 64, and 18.6% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 38 years. For every 100 females, there were 94.7 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 103.0 males.

The median income for a household in the village was $13,036, and the median income for a family was $24,583. Males had a median income of $28,750 versus $14,375 for females. The per capita income for the village was $10,468. About 28.6% of families and 38.3% of the population were below the poverty line, including 5.9% of those under the age of eighteen and 34.0% of those 65 or over.

Education
Natchitoches Parish School Board operates area public schools. The former Robeline public school (Mascot was the Bulldogs) closed in 1980 because of a federal desegregation order. Elementary pupils were consolidated with nearby Marthaville; high schoolers were bused to Natchitoches Central High School.

Parks and recreation
Robeline is home of the annual Robeline Heritage Festival held the first weekend of October. Past performers have included several local musicians as well as Percy Sledge.

The Adai Caddo Indians of Louisiana host an annual powwow at its cultural center and museum.

St. Anne Catholic Church
Located on the northside of Robeline, is the historic St. Anne Catholic Church. St. Anne Catholic Church was founded as a mission and part of the St. Augustine Parish. On March 11, 1856, the mission of St. Augustine at Isle Brevelle was decreed by Bishop Auguste Martin to be a parish in its own right and assigned Fr. Francois Martin to be its first resident pastor. St. Augustine Church (also known as the Isle Brevelle Church) expanded to serve four other churches in the area, St. Charles at Bermuda, St. Joseph's at Bayou Derbonne, St. Anne's on Old River, and St. Anne's at Spanish Lake serving the Adai Caddo Indians. The church is now a mission of the St. Francis of Assisi Church, Powhatan.

Native American Tribe

 * Adai Caddo Indians of Louisiana, Native American tribe whose cultural center, museum, and ceremonial grounds are located in Robeline.

Notable people

 * Bartine Burkett, silent film actress
 * Milton Joseph Cunningham, served three nonconsecutive terms as Attorney General of Louisiana prior to 1900

title: Robeline, Louisiana


text:
Brownsville-Bawcomville, Louisiana

Brownsville-Bawcomville is a former census-designated place (CDP) in Ouachita Parish, Louisiana, United States. The population was 7,616 at the 2000 census. It is part of the Monroe Metropolitan Statistical Area. For the 2010 census, the U.S. Census Bureau split Brownsville-Bawcomville into its two constituent communities, Brownsville and Bawcomville.

Geography
Brownsville-Bawcomville is located at 32.48389°N, -92.16389°W (32.483895, −92.163995).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the CDP has a total area of 6.7 sqmi, all of it land.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 7,616 people, 2,936 households, and 2,081 families residing in the CDP. The population density was 1,145.5 PD/sqmi. There were 3,373 housing units at an average density of 507.3 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the CDP was 87.30% White, 11.17% African American, 0.51% Native American, 0.07% Asian, 0.28% from other races, and 0.67% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.97% of the population.

There were 2,936 households, out of which 31.0% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 50.1% were married couples living together, 15.9% had a female householder with no husband present, and 29.1% were non-families. 23.2% of all households were made up of individuals, and 9.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.59 and the average family size was 3.05.

In the CDP, the population was spread out, with 26.2% under the age of 18, 11.0% from 18 to 24, 28.1% from 25 to 44, 21.9% from 45 to 64, and 12.8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 35 years. For every 100 females, there were 95.1 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 89.6 males.

The median income for a household in the CDP was $25,359, and the median income for a family was $28,958. Males had a median income of $24,797 versus $20,368 for females. The per capita income for the CDP was $11,710. About 15.7% of families and 20.2% of the population were below the poverty line, including 27.7% of those under age 18 and 16.6% of those age 65 or over.

title: Brownsville-Bawcomville, Louisiana


text:
Claiborne, Louisiana

Claiborne is an unincorporated community and census-designated place (CDP) in Ouachita Parish, Louisiana, United States. The population was 9,830 at the 2000 census. It is part of the Monroe Metropolitan Statistical Area.

Geography
Claiborne is located at 32.53028°N, -92.19167°W (32.530235, -92.191796).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the CDP has a total area of 10.1 sqmi, of which 10.1 sqmi is land and 0.04 sqmi (0.39%) is water.

2020 census
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 12,631 people, 4,532 households, and 2,851 families residing in the CDP.

2000 census
As of the census of 2000, there were 9,830 people, 3,759 households, and 2,823 families residing in the CDP. The population density was 972.3 PD/sqmi. There were 3,925 housing units at an average density of 388.2 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the CDP was 97.04% White, 1.58% African American, 0.13% Native American, 0.31% Asian, 0.01% Pacific Islander, 0.23% from other races, and 0.70% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.08% of the population.

There were 3,759 households, out of which 40.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 59.3% were married couples living together, 12.4% had a female householder with no husband present, and 24.9% were non-families. 21.8% of all households were made up of individuals, and 8.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.61 and the average family size was 3.05.

In the CDP, the population was spread out, with 28.4% under the age of 18, 8.9% from 18 to 24, 32.0% from 25 to 44, 20.9% from 45 to 64, and 9.8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 33 years. For every 100 females, there were 88.3 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 84.4 males.

The median income for a household in the CDP was $45,200, and the median income for a family was $54,041. Males had a median income of $37,000 versus $26,008 for females. The per capita income for the CDP was $20,816. About 6.7% of families and 8.6% of the population were below the poverty line, including 9.7% of those under age 18 and 10.4% of those age 65 or over.

Claiborne is a suburb of West Monroe, and sections of the area considered part of the town of Claiborne are within the city limits of West Monroe.

title: Claiborne, Louisiana


text:
Monroe, Louisiana

Monroe is the eighth-largest city in the U.S. state of Louisiana, and parish seat of Ouachita Parish. With a 2020 census-tabulated population of 47,702, it is the principal city of the Monroe metropolitan statistical area, the second-largest metropolitan area in North Louisiana.

Etymology
As governor of Louisiana, Esteban Rodríguez Miró had Fort Miro built in 1791. Fort Miro changed its name to Monroe to commemorate the first arrival of the steamboat James Monroe in the spring of 1820. The ship's arrival was the single event, in the minds of local residents, that transformed the outpost into a town.

Credit for the name is indirectly given to James Monroe of Virginia, the fifth President of the United States, for whom the ship was named. The steamboat is depicted in a mural at the main branch of the Ouachita Parish Public Library.

Early history–late 20th century
Monroe's origins date back to the Spanish colonial period.

"As the 19th century began, the entire Ouachita Valley region... was part of Spanish colonial holdings. Ouachita Parish encompassed the area between the Red and the Mississippi Rivers, from north of Concordia and Rapides Parish to the Missouri. The area was sparsely populated, primarily by itinerant hunters and trappers until late in the 18th century. Under Spanish colonial rule, Jean Baptiste Filhiol was sent from South Louisiana to oversee the settlement of the Poste du Ouachita in 1781. In 1785 Filhiol designated Prairie des Canots, now Monroe... as the governmental center of the Poste du Ouachita. In response to a petition by the settlers, a fortification was built in 1791 and named Fort Miro in honor of the Spanish governor, Estavan Miro."

Fort Miro changed its name to Monroe to commemorate the first arrival of the steamboat James Monroe in the spring of 1820 (see "Etymology" above).

In 1913, Joseph A. Biedenharn, the first bottler of Coca-Cola, moved to Monroe from Vicksburg, Mississippi. Biedenharn and his son Malcolm were among the founders of Delta Air Lines, originally Delta Dusters. That company was founded in Tallulah, Louisiana in Madison Parish. It was based on products and processes developed by the Agriculture Experimental Station to dust crops from airplanes in order to combat the devastating effects that the boll weevil had on cotton crops. Biedenharn's home and gardens have been preserved and are now operated as the Biedenharn Museum and Gardens and are open to the public.

Collett E. Woolman, the Ouachita Parish agent, was originally from Indiana. He pioneered crop dusting to eradicate the boll weevil, which destroyed cotton throughout the Mississippi Delta in the early 20th century. Woolman originated the first crop-dusting service in the world. The collapse of cotton production meant a widespread loss of farm jobs, which contributed to the early-20th-century Great Migration, when a total of 1.5 million African-Americans left the rural South for jobs in northern and midwestern cities. They were also escaping the oppressive racial conditions and violence under Jim Crow and the disenfranchisement that excluded most blacks from the political system. Howard D. Griffin (1911-1986) purchased a boat dealership in 1936 while a student at what became the University of Louisiana Monroe. By the 1960s, Griffin's company had become the world's largest outboard motor dealership, and he also sold motorcycles. From 1955 to 1985, Griffin and his wife, Birdie M. Griffin (1915-1985), operated their seasonal Land O' Toys store in Monroe.

Geography
Located in northeastern Louisiana, Monroe is the center of the Monroe metropolitan statistical area. It is the parish seat of Ouachita Parish, and northeastern Louisiana's economic and cultural hub. Monroe has an elevation of 72 ft above sea level. According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 31.6 square miles (83.9 km$2$), of which, 28.7 square miles (74.3 km$2$) is land and 3.7 square miles (9.6 km$2$) is water. The total area is 11.46% water.

Climate

Monroe has a humid subtropical climate (Köppen climate classification Cfa). Rainfall is abundant, with the normal annual precipitation averaging over 51 in. Monthly averages range from less than 3 in in August to more than 5 in in June. Severe thunderstorms with heavy rain, hail, damaging winds and tornadoes occur in the area during the spring and summer months.

The winter months are normally mild, with an average of 35 days of freezing or below-freezing temperatures per year, with ice and sleet storms possible. Summer months are hot and humid, with maximum temperatures exceeding 90 degrees an average of 91 days per year, with high to very high relative average humidity, sometimes exceeding the 90 percent level.

March 2016 flood
In March 2016, rainfall amounts ranging between 15 and 20 inches fell area-wide over 3 days, more than any 3-day period ever previously recorded. In Ouachita Parish alone, there were 9,500 homes with flood damage, and 5,400 were completely flooded. More than 1,700 high-water rescues were performed.

2020 tornado
As part of the 2020 Easter tornado outbreak, on April 12, the community was struck by a low-end EF3 tornado. Damage was severe, but there were no deaths or injuries due to advance warnings.

Demographics
As of the 2020 census, there were 47,702 people, 17,327 households, and 9,811 families residing in the city. At the 2019 American Community Survey, there were 48,241 people and 17,327 households. In 2010, the population was 48,815, declining from the city's historic high of 57,597 at the 1980 U.S. census.

Of the 17,327 households in 2019, there were 7,409 owner-occupied housing units. An estimated 3,493 of owner-occupied housing units were married couples living together; 354 were male households with no female present, and 927 were female households with no male present. There was an average family size of 3.58; 27.4% of all households were married couples living together, 29.8% were male households with no female present, and 46.4% were female households with no male present.

The median income for a household in the city was $30,438 versus $51,073 nationwide. Families had an annual median income of $38,374, married-couple families $75,089, and non-family households $21,210. Approximately 36.8% of the population lived at or below the poverty line; 54.1% under 18 years, 32.2% aged 18 to 16, and 21.3% aged 65 and older lived at or below the poverty line in 2019.

In 2019, the racial and ethnic makeup of the city was 62.0% Black or African American, 32.7% non-Hispanic or Latin American white, 0.2% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.8% Asian, 1.0% some other race, 0.9% two or more races, and 2.3% Hispanic and Latin American of any race. Among the Hispanic and Latin American population at the 2019 American Community Survey, the largest groups were Mexican Americans (1.2%) and Puerto Ricans (0.1%). Other Hispanic and Latin Americans made up 1.0% of the total population. Vietnamese and Chinese Americans were the largest Asian American groups in the city, followed by Asian Indians; the Vietnamese community in Monroe and the rest of Louisiana grew following the Vietnam War.

Religion
As part of the Bible Belt, Christianity is the largest religion in Monroe, the city's metropolitan area, and North Louisiana. In common with much of northern and Central Louisiana, Baptists makes up the largest Christian denomination by affiliation. As a predominantly-African-American city, the largest Baptist denominations are the National Baptist Convention, USA; the National Baptist Convention of America; and the Progressive National Baptist Convention. The Southern Baptist Convention also has churches throughout the Monroe area.

Methodism make up the second-largest Christian denomination by affiliation, primarily divided among the African Methodist Episcopal and Christian Methodist Episcopal churches. The Catholic Church is the third-largest, and the city's Catholic population is served by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Shreveport as of 2021. Pentecostalism is a growing tradition among the population, divided among Classical Pentecostals, and Oneness Pentecostals. The Church of God in Christ and United Pentecostal Church are the largest Pentecostal denominations in the city and metropolitan area; there are also some independent Oneness Pentecostal churches in the city.

Islam is Monroe's second-largest religion. Muslims are predominantly Sunni, though the Nation of Islam also maintains a presence in the area. Former mayor Jamie Mayo controversially awarded a key to the city to the head of the Nation of Islam Louis Farrakhan.

Judaism is Monroe's third-largest religion, with most being of the Reform denomination. Temple B'nai Israel, established in 1868, is Monroe's oldest synagogue.

Top employers

According to the city's 2019 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report, the largest employers in the city are:

Shopping

 * Pecanland Mall has major anchor stores: Belk, Dillard's, and JC Penney. The largest mall in North Louisiana, it has a total of 83 retail stores.

Government
Monroe uses a mayor–council form of government. It is led by a city council consisting of a mayor and five councilors. The mayor is elected at large and city councilors are elected by members of a geographic district. The city council holds meetings the second and fourth Tuesday of every month at 6:00pm. The agenda is posted at city hall 5 days prior to the meeting. Each city council meeting has time for public comment.

In the Louisiana State Legislature, Monroe is in the 33rd and 34th Senate districts, represented by Republican Stewart Cathey Jr. and Democrat Katrina Jackson, and the 14th, 16th, and 17th House districts, represented by Republican Michael Charles Echols, and Democrats Adrian Fisher and Patricia "Pat" Moore.

Monroe is located in Louisiana's 5th congressional district, represented by Julia Letlow in the United States House of Representatives.

Art and culture
The Monroe Civic Center has multiple facilities, the main complex being the Civic Center arena. The arena provides 44000 sqft of exhibit space along with 5,600 seats, with a larger potential capacity of up to 7,200 seats. The arena houses events such as banquets, circuses, and rodeos.The center also holds the B. D. Robinson Conference Hall, Monroe Convention Center, equestrian pavilion, and the 2,200-seat W. L. Jack Howard Theatre named for W. L. "Jack" Howard, the Union Parish native who served as mayor of Monroe from 1956 to 1972 and again from 1976 to 1978. The Harvey H. Benoit Recreation Center is used for basketball games and has outdoor tennis courts.

During the last week of June, Monroe hosts the annual Miss Louisiana pageant.

Monroe is the home of the Louisiana Purchase Gardens and Zoo, which collectively maintains over 500 animals. It also offers boat rides and a catwalk, in addition to other seasonal activities.

The Monroe area is home to several museums, including the Northeast Louisiana Children's Museum, the Biedenharn Museum and Gardens, the Chennault Aviation and Military Museum,  the Masur Museum of Arts, and the Northeast Louisiana Delta African-American Heritage Museum. This is one of the 26 sites identified in the early 21st century as part of the state's African American Heritage Trail.

Parks and Recreation
Monroe is home to the Black Bayou Lake National Wildlife Refuge. Admission is free.

Parks
The City of Monroe owns and operates 17 city parks.

Golf

 * Bayou Desiard Country Club
 * Chennault Golf Course
 * Frenchman's Bend Country Club
 * The Links at Muny, Forsythe Park

Professional Sports
Monroe was home to the Monroe Moccasins minor league hockey team in the Western Professional Hockey League from 1997 to 2001. The team will resume play in 2024.

Media
The Gannett owned News Star is the primary daily newspaper serving Monroe and area.

Monroe is served by two African-American-owned weekly newspapers: the Monroe Free Press and the Monroe Dispatch. The Free Press was founded in 1969 by Roosevelt Wright, Jr., and The Dispatch was founded in 1975 by Irma and Frank Detiege. The Ouachita Citizen is a locally owned and operated weekly newspaper that was founded in 1924. It has all-local coverage of events in Ouachita Parish, including Monroe, West Monroe, Sterlington and Richwood.

Television
Monroe is the principal city of the Monroe media market for television. Both KNOE-TV and KTVE offer a full range of network and local daily news programming.

Radio
Monroe is served by local radio station KJLO, and KMVX, that also broad KMLB AM 540.

Emergency alert stations

 * KMLB-KNOE 540 AM
 * KMVX-KNOE 101.9 FM
 * KNOE TV 8
 * KTVE-TV 10
 * KARD-TV 14

Colleges and universities

 * Career Technical College
 * Louisiana Delta Community College
 * McCann School of Business & Technology
 * Northeast Louisiana Technical College
 * UniTech Training Academy
 * University of Louisiana Monroe

High schools

 * Carroll High School
 * Neville High School
 * Ouachita Christian High School
 * Ouachita Parish High School
 * Richwood High School
 * River Oaks School
 * St. Frederick Catholic High School
 * Vision Academy
 * Wossman High School

Monroe's department of education, Monroe City Schools, operates separately from the larger Ouachita Parish School System. The department consists of three high schools, three junior high schools, and 18 elementary schools.

National Guard
Monroe is home to the 528th Engineer Battalion of the Louisiana Army National Guard. This unit is part of the 225th Engineer Brigade which is headquartered in Pineville, Louisiana at Louisiana National Guard Training Center Pineville.

Transportation
Monroe was the founding city of Delta Air Lines in the 1920s. As the airline expanded, it moved to Atlanta. Monroe Regional Airport serves the city and northeast Louisiana. It has three main runways and is served by regional partners of American Airlines and Delta Air Lines.

Greyhound Bus Lines provides transportation from Monroe to many cities across the nation. Monroe has the oldest municipally-owned transit system in the nation. Created in 1906 as a four-line street railroad, the Monroe Transit System now provides 13 fixed bus routes covering most areas of the city, and three demand-response buses serving the disabled.

Monroe can be accessed from Interstate 20, U.S. Highway 165, Louisiana Highway 15, U.S. Highway 80, and Interstate 420 (proposed).

Kansas City Southern, Union Pacific, BNSF, and Norfolk Southern serve freight traffic in the city.

title: Monroe, Louisiana


text:
Richwood, Louisiana

Richwood is a town in Ouachita Parish, Louisiana, United States. The Town was incorporated December 31, 1974, under the provision of Louisiana Revised Statute 33:52. The Town operates under a form of government consisting of an elected mayor and a board of alder persons, which has five elected members. The Town provides garbage collection, street maintenance, drainage maintenance, and other health and welfare services, in addition to the administrative services provided to its residents. The population was 3,392 at the 2010 census.

Geography
Richwood is located in the southern portion of Ouachita Parish of Northeast Louisiana at 32.45972°N, -92.07528°W (32.459587, -92.075184).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 2.3 sqmi, all land.

Demographics
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 3,881 people, 607 households, and 348 families residing in the town.

title: Richwood, Louisiana


text:
Sterlington, Louisiana

Sterlington is a town in northern Ouachita Parish, Louisiana, United States, near the boundary with Union Parish. At the 2010 census, the population was 1,594. In the 2018 census estimates, the population rose to 2,724. In 2014, Sterlington was the fastest-growing community in Northeast Louisiana.

History
Former Mayor Vern Breland was subsequently arrested for malfeasance in office in April 2020.

In 2022, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission charged the town of Sterlington, its former mayor, and the town's advise with misleading investors in the sale of $5.8 million in municipal bonds in 2017 and 2018.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 2.3 square miles (6.0 km$2$), of which 2.3 square miles (5.9 km$2$) is land and 0.43% is water.

Demographics
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 1,980 people, 926 households, and 726 families residing in the town.

Economy
Since 1930, Sterlington has been home to ANGUS Chemical Company, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Dow Chemical Company, provides approximately 204 full-time and contract jobs to the area. ANGUS has a $20 million annual impact on the local economy, as well as "Contributes more than $50,000 annually to the United Way and other community outreach programs."

Education
Sterlington is part of the Ouachita Parish School System and has one elementary school, Sterlington Elementary School. Sterlington Middle School and High School are also under the supervision of the Ouachita system.

Notable people
Actor Ed Nelson relocated with his family to Sterlington from New Orleans in 2005 in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.

U.S. Ambassador Edward J. Perkins was born in Sterlington in 1928.

title: Sterlington, Louisiana


text:
Swartz, Louisiana

Swartz is a census-designated place (CDP) in Ouachita Parish in northeastern Louisiana, United States. The population was 4,354 at the 2020 United States Census. It is part of the Monroe Metropolitan Statistical Area.

Geography
Swartz is located at 32.56611°N, -91.99167°W (32.566128, -91.991557). According to the United States Census Bureau, the CDP has a total area of 8.13 sqmi, all land.

2020 census
As of the 2020 United States Census, there were 4,354 people, 1,523 households, and 1,073 families residing in the CDP.

2000 census
As of the 2000 United States Census, there were 4,247 people, 1,557 households, and 1,250 families residing in the CDP. The population density was 314.7 PD/sqmi. There were 1,642 housing units at an average density of 121.7 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the CDP was 91.10% White, 6.80% African American, 0.40% Native American, 0.47% Asian, and 0.78% from other races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.62% of the population.

There were 1,557 households, out of which 41.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 66.5% were married couples living together, 10.6% had a female householder with no husband present, and 19.7% were non-families. 16.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 5.0% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.73 and the average family size was 3.06.

In the CDP, the population was spread out, with 28.1% under the age of 18, 10.8% from 18 to 24, 30.9% from 25 to 44, 21.9% from 45 to 64, and 8.4% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 32 years. For every 100 females, there were 93.9 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 89.9 males.

The median income for a household in the CDP was $42,645, and the median income for a family was $50,682. Males had a median income of $32,006 versus $25,305 for females. The per capita income for the CDP was $17,058. About 5.9% of families and 8.3% of the population were below the poverty line, including 9.8% of those under age 18 and 10.5% of those age 65 or over.

Notable People
Swartz is the residence of Vance McAllister, the former Republican U.S. Representative from Louisiana's 5th congressional district and a Monroe-area businessman.

Swartz, Louisiana is the former residence of Rodney H Stoffer, musician, sketch artist, guitarist for Dallas, Texas based psychedelic rock band, The Mammal Virus.

title: Swartz, Louisiana


text:
West Monroe, Louisiana

West Monroe is a city in Ouachita Parish, Louisiana, United States. It is situated on the Ouachita River, across from the neighboring city of Monroe. The two cities are often referred to as the Twin Cities of northeast Louisiana. Its population was 13,065 at the 2010 census and it is part of the Monroe Metropolitan Statistical Area.

History
Originally laid out in 1837 as Byron by John Campbell at the foot of the ferry landing to Monroe, the town floundered and Campbell went bankrupt. The area was bought by Christopher Dabbs, a doctor from Virginia who submitted the plans for Cotton Port in 1854; it was officially recognized in 1859. It too languished until the arrival of the Vicksburg, Shreveport and Pacific Railway and the construction of the bridge over the Ouachita River. Cotton Port boomed as a river port and rail depot.

Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 8.0 square miles (20.6 km$2$), of which 7.7 square miles (20.0 km$2$) is land and 0.2 square mile (0.6 km$2$) (3.14%) is water.

West Monroe is a separate municipality from Monroe.

Demographics

As of the 2020 United States census, there were 13,103 people, 5,616 households, and 2,636 families residing in the city.

Government
The current mayor is Staci Albritton Mitchell, who has served since 2018.

A 2013 "Community Impressions" report complimented the green spaces, including the Kiroli and Restoration parks, and Antique Alley as important assets to the West Monroe community. According to long-term Mayor Dave Norris, the study confirms "the value of many of the projects we've focused on to enhance quality of life." The report identifies situations in need of improvement, many of which have already been addressed, including insufficient or inaccurate signage to area attractions, brown water and the need to renovate certain wells, limited shopping opportunities for clothing, traffic problems on Thomas Road, and the failure to promote the popular phenomenon created from the West Monroe-based A&E reality television series, Duck Dynasty. The consultants declared West Monroe and the general area west of the Ouachita River overall as "a clean, vibrant, growing friendly area ... [with] a small town atmosphere and yet ... many of the amenities and features of a [larger] city."

National Guard
1022nd Engineer Company (Vertical) of the 527th Engineer Battalion of the 225th Engineer Brigade is located in West Monroe.

Radio
West Monroe shares the radio market with Monroe

Notable people

 * Evelyn Blackmon, member of the Louisiana House of Representatives from District 15 from 1984 to 1988

 * Donnie Copeland, former West Monroe Pentecostal assistant pastor and Republican member of the Arkansas House of Representatives, 2015 to 2017
 * Clarence Faulk, publisher, broadcaster, businessman in Ruston, born in West Monroe in 1909
 * William C. Feazel, oilman, interim U.S. Senator in 1948, and member of the Louisiana House of Representatives from 1932 to 1936
 * Bruce Fowler, opera singer
 * Andy Griggs, country singer
 * Kevin Gordon, Americana singer/songwriter
 * James D. Halsell, astronaut; space shuttle pilot
 * Dixon Hearne, author
 * Alton Hardy Howard, co-founder of Howard Brothers Discount Stores; gospel songwriter and author
 * Bradie James, NFL linebacker for the Dallas Cowboys who played football at Louisiana State University, Wossman High School, before transferring to West Monroe High School
 * Rickey Minor, music director, composer and music producer. Born in Monroe.
 * William Wiley Norris, III (1936-2016), city, district, and circuit court judge
 * Webb Pierce, Country Music Hall of Fame member
 * Cassidy Riley, professional wrestler for WWE and TNA
 * Phil Robertson, Duck Dynasty star and founder of Duck Commander
 * Kay Robertson, Duck Dynasty star
 * Sadie Robertson, Duck Dynasty star
 * Si Robertson, Duck Dynasty star
 * Willie Robertson, Duck Dynasty star
 * Jase Robertson, Duck Dynasty star
 * Korie Robertson, Duck Dynasty star
 * Bill Russell, professional basketball player, center for Boston Celtics, five-time NBA Most Valuable Player and twelve-time All-Star
 * Mike Walsworth, 1st State Senator from West Monroe
 * Andrew Whitworth, NFL offensive tackle for the Los Angeles Rams who played football at Louisiana State University and West Monroe High School

title: West Monroe, Louisiana


text:
Belle Chasse, Louisiana

Belle Chasse is a census-designated place (CDP) in Plaquemines Parish, Louisiana, United States, on the west bank of the Mississippi River. Belle Chasse is part of the Greater New Orleans metropolitan area. The population was 10,579 at the 2020 United States census. Belle Chasse is the largest community in Plaquemines Parish. It is home to Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base New Orleans, a Naval Air Station for the U.S. Navy Reserve.

History
There is little consensus regarding the origin of the name Belle Chasse. In French, belle chasse literally means "beautiful hunting." It is widely believed that it was so named due to the richness of wildlife which the initial French colonists observed when they settled in the region. Others say that Belle Chasse was named after a Colonel Joseph D. Bellechasse, who lived in New Orleans around the late 18th and early 19th century. Alternatively, it was named after the plantation of Deville de Goutin Bellechasse.

The Confederate statesman Judah P. Benjamin was the most famous owner of the Belle Chasse plantation. After falling into decay and abandonment by the 1930s, the landmark plantation house was demolished in 1960. The bell was salvaged and today is in front of the Belle Chasse Public Library.

The Naval Air Station was founded in 1920 on the south shore of Lake Pontchartrain, but in 1957 it relocated to its current location (Belle Chasse, Louisiana). It has been designated as a Joint Forces Reserve Air Station. It is home to various naval air units as well as an Air Force Reserve fighter squadron and a Marine Corps Reserve helicopter unit. In March 2009, U.S. Navy Reserve Airborne Early Warning Squadron 77 (VAW-77) relocated its six E-2C aircraft from NAS Atlanta, GA to Belle Chasse. The squadron routinely deploys to the Caribbean on counter-narcotic operations. The squadron aircrew are all U.S. Naval Reservists while the maintenance department for the aircraft is run by Northrop Grumman Field Services.

Geography
Belle Chasse is located at 29.86333°N, -89.99833°W (29.852243, -89.9983335), in the New Orleans metropolitan area. According to the United States Census Bureau, the CDP has a total area of 28.4 sqmi, of which 24.9 sqmi is land and 3.5 sqmi (12.21%) is water.

Demographics
At the 2019 American Community Survey, there were 14,024 people living in Belle Chasse, up from 12,679 in 2010. The 2020 United States census reported a population decline at 10,579.

The racial and ethnic makeup of the community was 79.4% non-Hispanic white, 11.6% African American, 0.6% American Indian and Alaska Native, 2.4% Asian, 2.0% some other race, and 3.9% two or more races. Hispanic and Latino Americans were 10.5% of the population in 2019. In 2020, its makeup was 75.85% non-Hispanic white, 5.98% Black or African American, 3.34% Asian, 0.14% Pacific Islander, 4.55% two or more races, and 9.47% Hispanic and Latino American, reflecting the demographic transition of the U.S.

In 2019, the median age was 35.0, and 8.2% of the population were aged 5 and under; 70.7% of the population was aged 18 and older, and 10.7% were aged 65 and older. Among the population, 11.4% spoke a language other than English at home, and Spanish was the second most-spoken language. In the census-designated place, the median income for a household was $66,653, and $50,169 was the median income for males versus $41,623 for females. An estimated 11.3% of the population lived at or below the poverty line.

Culture and arts
Belle Chasse is home to the famous "Orange Fest," "Crawfish Fest," and "Gamers Fest." It is also home to the Plaquemines Parish Seafood Festival.

Education
Plaquemines Parish School Board operates public schools in the entire parish.

Belle Chasse Primary, Belle Chasse Middle, Belle Chasse High School, Belle Chasse Academy, Plaquemines Parrish Alternative School.

At first Belle Chasse High, which opened in 1928, was K-12, but in 1977 Belle Chasse Middle School opened to take the middle grades away. Belle Chasse Primary opened in August 1994. Belle Chasse Middle received the 5th grade in 1999.

Belle Chasse also has a Catholic School, Our Lady of Perpetual Help School, of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New Orleans.

The Plaquemines Parish Library maintains the Belle Chasse Branch, and the library headquarters in the F. Edward Hebert Building.

Government
Belle Chasse is the current and temporary home of the Plaquemines Parish Courthouse.

The United States Postal Service operates a post office.

Parish president
Amos Cormier, Jr. was once a resident of Port Sulphur and resided in Belle Chasse when he died. Kirk Lepine defeated incumbent Amos Cormier III in a runoff election on Dec. 8 2018 to become Plaquemines Parish President.

National Guard
Belle Chasse serves as a headquarters for the Louisiana Air Force National Guard and home of the 159th Fighter Wing. It served as the principal helicopter staging area for rescue operations during Hurricane Katrina.

Belle Chasse John Doe
On February 14, 1975, the body of an unidentified teenage boy was found hanging from a persimmon tree near Belle Chasse. The teenager had written a lengthy suicide note addressed "to Mom and Dad" in which he stated that he "cannot tolerate the false and empty existence I have created". Though the case received national coverage and over 300 parents of missing sons contacted the Plaquemines Parish Sheriff's office, a four-month effort to identify the body failed. He was buried in Gretna, Louisiana and remains unidentified as of 2024.

Notable people

 * Billy Nungesser, former Parish President and current Lt. Governor of Louisiana.
 * Chris Henry, former wide receiver for the Cincinnati Bengals
 * Benny Rousselle, former member of the Louisiana House (1996–1999) and the former president of Plaquemines Parish government (1999–2007)
 * Ernest Wooton, District 105 state representative (1999–2012), Plaquemines Parish sheriff (1984–1992)
 * Bella Blue, Burlesque dancer

title: Belle Chasse, Louisiana


text:
Boothville-Venice, Louisiana

Boothville-Venice is a former census-designated place (CDP) in Plaquemines Parish, Louisiana, United States, which includes the unincorporated communities of Boothville, Venice, and Orchard. The population was 2,220 at the 2000 census. For the 2010 census, Boothville-Venice was split into the CDPs of Boothville and Venice.

Boothville is the most populous and northernmost of these communities, all located along Louisiana Highway 23 on the West Bank of the Mississippi River. Boothville is home to the Boothville Heliport, important in helicopter transport for offshore oil rigs in the Gulf of Mexico. Venice is the town farthest south along Highway 23 within the protection levee. Neighboring Orchard (sometimes considered part of Venice) is outside of the protection levee; it has a boat marina and buildings raised on stilts. The Boothville-Venice area also includes the community of Tidewater, to the west of Orchard on a secondary road; port and petroleum facilities dominate Tidewater, which also has a weather station.

Hurricane Katrina
Boothville is near to where Hurricane Katrina made landfall on August 29, 2005. According to the Baton Rouge Advocate, little was left standing in either Boothville or Venice, the few buildings that survived had water up to the rooftops, and the area orange groves had also been submerged. The only building for almost 40 mi that weathered the storm with minimal damage was Boothville-Venice High School. It was built after Hurricanes Betsy and Camille on concrete stilts 14 ft above ground to protect classrooms from storm surge, and it was designed with tall, narrow windows to lessen the risk of broken windows from flying debris. The school was reopened in 2006 as Boothville-Venice Elementary School.

Geography
Boothville-Venice is located at 29.31778°N, -89.39028°W (29.317853, -89.390416).

According to the United States Census Bureau, the CDP has a total area of 5.1 sqmi, of which 2.6 sqmi is land and 2.5 sqmi (49.01%) is water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 2,220 people, 746 households, and 584 families residing in the CDP. The population density was 863.2 PD/sqmi. There were 933 housing units at an average density of 362.8 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the CDP was 61.94% White, 28.74% African American, 3.38% Native American, 4.01% Asian, 0.27% from other races, and 1.67% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.22% of the population.

There were 746 households, out of which 41.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 58.3% were married couples living together, 14.2% had a female householder with no husband present, and 21.7% were non-families. 19.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 5.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.96 and the average family size was 3.38.

In the CDP, the population was spread out, with 31.7% under the age of 18, 10.1% from 18 to 24, 28.6% from 25 to 44, 22.1% from 45 to 64, and 7.5% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 32 years. For every 100 females, there were 104.2 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 100.9 males.

The median income for a household in the CDP was $33,813, and the median income for a family was $42,823. Males had a median income of $35,385 versus $18,571 for females. The per capita income for the CDP was $13,123. About 11.8% of families and 17.3% of the population were below the poverty line, including 17.4% of those under age 18 and 21.7% of those age 65 or over.

Education
Plaquemines Parish School Board operates the public schools of the parish.

It is served by Boothville-Venice Elementary School in Boothville and South Plaquemines High School in Buras. Prior to 2005 Boothville-Venice High School served the community, but Hurricane Katrina damaged the building.

title: Boothville-Venice, Louisiana


text:
Buras-Triumph, Louisiana

Buras-Triumph is a former census-designated place in Plaquemines Parish, Louisiana, United States. The population was 3,358 at the 2000 census. For the 2010 census, Buras-Triumph was split into the CDPs of Buras and Triumph. On the peninsula, Buras has been located higher, with Triumph located southeast of Buras.

History
The town of Buras was established, informally, in the 1840s. Several small settlements on the West Bank of the Mississippi River north of Fort Jackson became known collectively as the Quartiers des Burats, the Burat Settlement, anchored on the property of Sebastian Burat, near where Cazezu Boulevard meets Parish Highway 11 today. Burat was later anglicized to Buras. In 1854, the Buras Post Office was established, along with a regular mail route by packet boat on the river. By 1864, a new church, Our Lady of Good Harbor, was established in Buras as the community grew.

Civil War
In April 1862, during the American Civil War, the Battle of Forts Jackson and St. Philip took place near Buras. Union Flag Officer David Farragut led a fleet up the river to capture New Orleans and engaged the forts in the early morning hours of April 23. A single Union vessel, the USS Varuna, was sunk near Buras in an engagement with the Confederate steamer CSS Governor Moore and the CSS Stonewall Jackson. The heavily damaged Governor Moore also sank, not far from its Union opponent.

20th century
In the first decades of the 20th century, Buras' primary industries were oyster fishing and citrus farming. In the 1930s, petroleum was discovered in the region, along with natural gas and sulfur. One of the first producing fields was established in Quarantine Bay, east of Buras, by the Gulf Oil Company. With the coming of the oil and gas industries, Buras began to slowly evolve from a farming and fishing village into a larger community.

Hurricanes
Buras-Triumph and the surrounding communities have been subjected to many devastating hurricanes over the years, including the 1893 Cheniere Caminada hurricane, which destroyed the original church, the 1901 Louisiana hurricane, the 1915 New Orleans hurricane, Hurricane Betsy in 1965, and Hurricane Camille in 1969.

More recently, this area was the location where, on August 29, 2005, the eye of Hurricane Katrina first made landfall in Louisiana. Although Katrina was one of the costliest natural disasters to strike the U.S., according to the Hurricane Severity Index, at landfall both Betsy and Camille were higher-intensity hurricanes than Katrina. However, the loss of surrounding marsh lands to erosion and subsidence allowed the energy of Hurricane Katrina's storm surge to overtop the levee system and the area was devastated yet again.

Emblematic of the rebuilding and recovery is the new Buras water tower. The image of the previous tower, collapsed in the rubble, was an icon of the destruction Katrina brought. (See photos.)

Geography
Buras-Triumph is located along the west bank of the Mississippi River at 29.35167°N, -89.51389°W (29.351783, -89.513815) and has an elevation of 3 ft. Buras-Triumph is within the federal hurricane protection levee system. Approximately 3,000 acre of the area are drained by two stormwater pumping stations, one north of Buras and one in Triumph.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the CDP has a total area of 7.2 sqmi, of which 5.0 sqmi is land and 2.2 sqmi (30.32%) is water.

Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 3,358 people, 1,146 households, and 850 families residing in the CDP. The population density was 670.9 PD/sqmi. There were 1,408 housing units at an average density of 281.3 /sqmi. The racial makeup of the CDP was 71.68% White, 10.90% African American, 1.67% Native American, 12.30% Asian, 1.28% from other races, and 2.17% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.10% of the population.

There were 1,146 households, out of which 40.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 53.6% were married couples living together, 12.7% had a female householder with no husband present, and 25.8% were non-families. 20.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 8.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.92 and the average family size was 3.40.

In the CDP, the population was spread out, with 30.3% under the age of 18, 10.0% from 18 to 24, 29.7% from 25 to 44, 22.1% from 45 to 64, and 7.9% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 32 years. For every 100 females, there were 102.4 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 105.9 males.

The median income for a household in the CDP was $33,059, and the median income for a family was $41,216. Males had a median income of $35,980 versus $16,917 for females. The per capita income for the CDP was $13,426. About 18.1% of families and 20.7% of the population were below the poverty line, including 23.2% of those under age 18 and 15.2% of those age 65 or over.

Education
Plaquemines Parish School Board operates the public schools of the parish.

It is served by South Plaquemines High School in Buras. Prior to 2005 Buras Middle School and Buras High School served the community, but Hurricane Katrina damaged the buildings.

title: Buras-Triumph, Louisiana


text:
Empire, Louisiana

Empire is a census-designated place (CDP) in Plaquemines Parish, Louisiana, United States. The population was 905 at the 2020 census.

Seafood production
Empire, along with Venice, is the third largest seafood port in the United States by weight and value(Landings by Port Ranked by Pounds, NOAA, 2016). Some two thousand boats home port from Empire. Species landed include oysters, shrimp, menhaden, and other types of fin fish. During the BP oil spill, seafood landings came to a halt. Oyster landings did not resume for an entire year. Under the Coast 2050 plan, a 50,000 cfs freshwater diversion is proposed at Empire, which threatens the livelihood of the fishermen and the supporting businesses by drastically altering the salinity in the surrounding marshes.

Hurricane Katrina
During the afternoon of August 28, 2005, Hurricane Katrina approached the northern coastline of the Gulf of Mexico, generating tropical force winds along coastal areas of Florida, Alabama, Mississippi and Louisiana. At 6:10 a.m., on August 29, 2005, Katrina made landfall just a few miles southeast of Empire, at Buras-Triumph. Many shrimp and oyster boats were grounded along the roads and levees near Empire. On the morning of August 29, the eye of the storm passed over Empire. The area was entirely flooded, causing dozens of boats that had popped their moorings to settle near the southern foot of the Empire High Rise Bridge. As a result, all traffic coming into or out of southern Plaquemines Parish was routed over the draw bridge on Parish Highway 11 (the old alignment of Louisiana Highway 23). Many notable businesses such as Tom's Place Oyster Bar and The Delta Marina were destroyed.

Geography
Empire is located at 29.39861°N, -89.60861°W (29.398586, -89.608501) and has an elevation of 3 ft.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the CDP has a total area of 7.6 sqmi, of which 5.2 sqmi is land and 2.4 sqmi (31.49%) is water.

Education
It is in the Plaquemines Parish School Board school district.

South Plaquemines High School is in the CDP.

Plaquemines Parish is in the service area of Nunez Community College.

title: Empire, Louisiana