National Register Listing

Aillet House

845 N. Jefferson Ave., Port Allen, LA
Local significance of the building:
Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1991.

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.

architecture houses residential buildings
Louisiana is home to several unique cultural traditions, including Mardi Gras, a festival that is celebrated in the weeks leading up to Lent. Mardi Gras is known for its elaborate parades, colorful costumes, and festive atmosphere.
Louisiana random facts
West Baton Rouge Parish, located in the state of Louisiana, has a rich history that spans several centuries. The area was originally settled by Native American tribes, including the Houma and Chitimacha, who relied on the abundant resources provided by the Mississippi River and its surrounding wetlands. In the 18th century, French explorers arrived in the region and established settlements, bringing with them a vibrant French culture that would continue to influence the area.

During the 19th century, West Baton Rouge Parish experienced significant economic growth due to the establishment of sugarcane plantations. The fertile soil and favorable climate made it an ideal location for sugarcane production, and many wealthy plantation owners settled in the area. Slavery was prevalent during this time, with enslaved individuals playing a crucial role in the success of the plantations. The Civil War, however, led to the decline of the plantation economy as many plantation owners suffered severe financial losses.

In the 20th century, West Baton Rouge Parish underwent modernization and development. The construction of the Huey P. Long Bridge in 1940 greatly improved transportation and connected the parish to the city of Baton Rouge, stimulating economic growth. In addition, the petrochemical industry emerged as a dominant force in the area, attracting major companies and providing employment opportunities.

Today, West Baton Rouge Parish continues to thrive as a mix of rural and suburban communities. It is home to a diverse population and offers a range of cultural and recreational activities. The parish's rich history can still be seen in its architecture, museums, and historic sites, which provide glimpses into the past and celebrate the heritage of the region.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of West Baton Rouge Parish, Louisiana.

  • 1807: West Baton Rouge Parish is established as one of the original 19 parishes of the Territory of Orleans.
  • 1810: The population of West Baton Rouge Parish is recorded as 1,442.
  • 1835: The construction of a new courthouse in the town of Brusly signifies the parish's development.
  • 1847: The town of Brusly is officially incorporated.
  • 1863: During the Civil War, the Battle of Baton Rouge takes place in West Baton Rouge Parish.
  • 1882: The first railroad reaches West Baton Rouge Parish, providing transportation for goods and people.
  • 1891: The town of Port Allen is incorporated, becoming the new seat of government for the parish.
  • 1926: The Huey P. Long Bridge is completed, connecting West Baton Rouge Parish to East Baton Rouge Parish.
  • 1955: Floodwaters from Hurricane Audrey cause devastation in West Baton Rouge Parish.
  • 2012: The West Baton Rouge Museum is named one of the Smithsonian Affiliations.