Crowley Historic District
LA 13 and U.S. 90, Crowley, LAThe Crowley Historic District is significant in the area of architecture as the largest, most complete, architecturally pretentious, and visually impressive example of a late-nineteenth to early-twentieth-century town in a 7 parish area. These include the parishes of Acadia, Lafayette, Jefferson Davis, Allen, Evangeline, St. Landry, and Vermilion. It is the only historic town in this region in which the residential area and the commercial area are both well-preserved and impressive.
Local significance of the district:
Community Planning And Development; Commerce; Agriculture; Architecture; Performing Arts
Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1982.
About National Register Listings
The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.
The Louisiana Hayride, a radio show that was broadcast from Shreveport, Louisiana, helped launch the careers of several famous musicians, including Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and Hank Williams. The show ran from 1948 to 1960 and was known for its promotion of country and rockabilly music.
About Acadia Parish
Acadia Parish Timeline
Acadia Parish, Louisiana has a rich history that dates back to its settlement by French explorers in the 18th century. The area was originally inhabited by the Attakapas and Coushatta Native American tribes. However, it was not until the establishment of Fort St. Jean Baptiste in present-day Natchitoches in 1714 that French influence began to shape the region.
In 1755, the Acadians, French-speaking settlers from Canada, were expelled by the British from Acadia (present-day Nova Scotia) in what is known as the Great Expulsion or Grand Dérangement. Many of these exiled Acadians, commonly known as Cajuns, found refuge in South Louisiana, including Acadia Parish. They brought with them their vibrant culture, language, and traditions, which have greatly influenced the region ever since.
The area that is now Acadia Parish was originally part of St. Landry Parish and was formed as an independent parish in 1886. The city of Crowley, founded in 1887, became the parish seat. The town was named after Pat Crowley, an Irish-American who played a pivotal role in the development of the area by creating the Louisiana Western Railroad, which contributed to the growth and prosperity of the region.
Throughout its history, Acadia Parish has been primarily agrarian, with cotton and rice as the main crops. The discovery of oil and natural gas in the early 20th century brought economic diversification and led to the emergence of new industries. Today, Acadia Parish is known for its thriving agriculture, oil and gas production, as well as its popular Cajun and Creole cuisine, music, and festivals, making it a vibrant and culturally significant part of Louisiana's history.
In 1755, the Acadians, French-speaking settlers from Canada, were expelled by the British from Acadia (present-day Nova Scotia) in what is known as the Great Expulsion or Grand Dérangement. Many of these exiled Acadians, commonly known as Cajuns, found refuge in South Louisiana, including Acadia Parish. They brought with them their vibrant culture, language, and traditions, which have greatly influenced the region ever since.
The area that is now Acadia Parish was originally part of St. Landry Parish and was formed as an independent parish in 1886. The city of Crowley, founded in 1887, became the parish seat. The town was named after Pat Crowley, an Irish-American who played a pivotal role in the development of the area by creating the Louisiana Western Railroad, which contributed to the growth and prosperity of the region.
Throughout its history, Acadia Parish has been primarily agrarian, with cotton and rice as the main crops. The discovery of oil and natural gas in the early 20th century brought economic diversification and led to the emergence of new industries. Today, Acadia Parish is known for its thriving agriculture, oil and gas production, as well as its popular Cajun and Creole cuisine, music, and festivals, making it a vibrant and culturally significant part of Louisiana's history.
Acadia Parish Timeline
This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Acadia Parish, Louisiana.
- Pre-18th century: The area that would become Acadia Parish was home to Native American tribes, including the Attakapas and Opelousas tribes.
- Mid-18th century: French settlers begin arriving in the area, establishing small farms and communities.
- 1763: The Treaty of Paris ends the French and Indian War, with France ceding the territory to Spain.
- 1803: The Louisiana Purchase occurs, transferring the area from Spanish control to the United States.
- Early 19th century: Settlers from various backgrounds, including Acadians, Germans, and Anglo-Americans, continue to migrate to the area.
- 1843: The region becomes part of St. Landry Parish.
- 1886: Acadia Parish is established as a separate parish by the Louisiana Legislature, with Crowley chosen as the parish seat.
- Early 20th century: The region experiences growth and development, with the economy centered around agriculture, particularly rice and sugarcane cultivation.
- 1927: The Great Mississippi Flood devastates the area, causing widespread destruction and loss of life.
- 20th century onward: Acadia Parish continues to develop, diversifying its economy and maintaining its agricultural roots.