Arizona Methodist Church
a.k.a. Arizona United Methodist Church
LA 806, Arizona, LA Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1983.
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 parish was named in honor of William Claiborne, the first governor of the state of Louisiana. In the early 19th century, the area was primarily a rural farming community, with cotton being the predominant crop. Slavery played a significant role in the local economy, with many plantations in operation during this time.
During the Civil War, Claiborne Parish was deeply divided, with some residents supporting the Confederate cause while others were Union sympathizers. The parish was the site of several skirmishes and military engagements, including the Battle of Athens in 1864, which resulted in a Union victory. The war brought significant devastation to the area, with many farms and homes destroyed in the conflict.
After the war, Claiborne Parish slowly began to rebuild and diversify its economy. The discovery of oil in nearby areas in the early 20th century brought new opportunities for growth and development. Today, Claiborne Parish is known for its natural beauty, with scenic lakes and forests attracting visitors for outdoor recreation. It remains a predominantly rural area, with agriculture and oil production being key sectors of the local economy. The rich history and natural resources of Claiborne Parish continue to be celebrated and preserved by its residents.
Claiborne Parish Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Claiborne Parish, Louisiana.
- 1828 - Claiborne Parish is established from Natchitoches Parish
- 1839 - The town of Homer is designated as the parish seat
- Late 1800s - The timber industry booms in Claiborne Parish
- 1914 - The Great Fire destroys much of the town of Homer
- 1930s - Oil and gas production becomes an important industry in the parish
- Late 1900s - Claiborne Parish experiences population decline