National Register Listing

Laura Plantation

2247 LA 18, Vacherie, LA
Local significance of the district:
Agriculture; Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1993.

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 State Penitentiary, commonly known as "Angola," is one of the largest maximum-security prisons in the United States. It is named after the former plantation on which it was built, and it is known for its extensive agricultural operations.
Louisiana random facts
St. James Parish, located in southeastern Louisiana, has a rich and diverse history that dates back hundreds of years. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Houma, Choctaw, and Chitimacha peoples. In the late 17th century, French explorers and settlers arrived in the region, establishing several plantations along the Mississippi River.

During the 18th and 19th centuries, St. James Parish became a major center for sugar and cotton production. Plantations thrived, relying heavily on the forced labor of enslaved Africans. The parish was home to many prominent planters and wealthy landowners, who built grand plantation homes and contributed to the growth of the local economy.

The Civil War left a significant impact on St. James Parish. Many plantations were destroyed or severely damaged, and the system of slavery came to an end. After the war, the agricultural economy began to recover with the introduction of new crops, such as sugarcane and soybeans. St. James Parish also experienced a period of industrial growth in the early 20th century, with the opening of a large paper mill and the development of the petrochemical industry along the river.

In recent years, St. James Parish has faced challenges related to industrialization and environmental concerns. The expansion of chemical plants and refineries has brought economic benefits but has also raised concerns about pollution and its impact on the health of local residents. Efforts have been made to address these issues, with a focus on sustainable development and protecting the natural resources of the parish. St. James Parish continues to be an important agricultural and industrial hub, with a blend of historical charm and modern growth.

This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of St. James Parish, Louisiana.

  • 1722: St. James Parish established as a French colonial territory.
  • 1779: St. James Parish becomes part of Spanish Louisiana.
  • 1803: Louisiana Purchase, St. James Parish becomes part of the United States.
  • 1811: The German Coast Uprising, a slave revolt, occurs in St. James Parish.
  • 1812: St. James Parish formed as an official Louisiana parish.
  • 1822: Construction of the St. James Catholic Church begins.
  • 1850: The railroad arrives in St. James Parish, stimulating economic growth.
  • 1863: During the Civil War, Union forces occupy St. James Parish.
  • 1930: St. James Parish experiences significant oil and gas discoveries.
  • 1985: Lutcher High School wins its first state football championship.
  • 2005: St. James Parish is heavily affected by Hurricane Katrina.