National Register Listing

Homer Historic District

Roughly bounded by N. Second, E. Main, S. Third, and W. Main Sts., Homer, LA
Local significance of the district:
Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1986.

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 Purchase Exposition, also known as the St. Louis World's Fair, was held in St. Louis, Missouri, in 1904. The fair featured exhibits from around the world and introduced several new inventions and products to the public, including the ice cream cone and Dr Pepper soft drink.
Louisiana random facts
Claiborne Parish, located in northwest Louisiana, has a rich history that can be traced back to its establishment in 1828. The area was originally settled by Native American tribes such as the Caddo and Choctaw, who inhabited the region for centuries before the arrival of European settlers.

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.

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