Cities and Towns in Jefferson Davis Parish, Louisiana
Founded in 1825, Jefferson Parish is one of 64 parishes in the state of Louisiana. Historically, Jefferson Parish was formed from part of Orleans Parish. The city of Gretna is the parish seat. With FIPS code of 51, Jefferson Parish has a population of 433,688 and area of 642 square miles (1,663 km²).
Major Cities and Towns in Jefferson Davis Parish, Louisiana
Jennings
Area, Population, and Location Information
- Area: 10.4 square miles
- Population: 9,837 (as of 2020)
- ZIP Codes: 70546
- Latitude: 30.2227° N
- Longitude: 92.6588° W
City Location and History
Jennings, the parish seat of Jefferson Davis Parish, is located in southwestern Louisiana, along Interstate 10 between Lake Charles and Lafayette. The city was founded in 1881 by Seabury and Lurline Miller and named after Jennings McComb, a contractor for the Southern Pacific Railroad. Jennings quickly became a hub for the cattle and rice industries, which were prominent in the region. It is also known as the “Cradle of Louisiana Oil” due to the discovery of oil near the town in 1901, making it the first commercial oil well in the state. Over the decades, Jennings evolved into a small but vibrant community with a strong agricultural and oil industry presence. The city also has a rich cultural heritage, blending Cajun and Creole influences.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Jennings is home to several major schools, including Jennings High School and Bethel Christian School. The city boasts several landmarks, such as the Louisiana Oil and Gas Park, which commemorates the area’s oil history, and the Zigler Museum, which features art and historical exhibits. Additionally, the city hosts the annual Jennings Alive Festival, celebrating the town’s history and culture. Other points of interest include the W.H. Tupper General Merchandise Museum and the historic downtown area, where visitors can experience early 20th-century architecture and charm.
Lake Arthur
Area, Population, and Location Information
- Area: 2.4 square miles
- Population: 2,588 (as of 2020)
- ZIP Code: 70549
- Latitude: 30.0808° N
- Longitude: 92.6725° W
City Location and History
Lake Arthur is a charming town located on the eastern shore of the lake that shares its name, in southern Jefferson Davis Parish. The town began as a settlement for fishermen and trappers, with its early economy focused on the rich aquatic resources provided by Lake Arthur. Incorporated in 1904, Lake Arthur grew as a trading center for the surrounding agricultural communities, particularly those involved in rice farming. The lake itself became a popular spot for recreation, attracting tourists for boating, fishing, and swimming. Although the town remains small, it retains a strong connection to its natural surroundings and has become known as a peaceful retreat with a rich history tied to Louisiana’s waterway culture.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Lake Arthur High School serves the town’s students, providing education from elementary through high school levels. One of the town’s most beloved landmarks is Lake Arthur Park, which offers scenic views of the lake, picnic areas, and a boat launch for recreational activities. Additionally, Lake Arthur hosts the annual Regatta Festival, celebrating the town’s connection to its namesake lake with live music, food, and boat races. The town’s historic district, featuring early 20th-century architecture, also highlights its cultural and architectural heritage.
Welsh
Area, Population, and Location Information
- Area: 6.5 square miles
- Population: 3,046 (as of 2020)
- ZIP Code: 70591
- Latitude: 30.2366° N
- Longitude: 92.8152° W
City Location and History
Welsh is a small town located in the western part of Jefferson Davis Parish, along Interstate 10. It was founded in 1880 by rice farmers and cattlemen and was named after a local landowner, Henry Welsh. The town’s economy was initially based on agriculture, with rice farming playing a significant role in its development. Welsh became known as the “Gateway to Southwest Louisiana” due to its strategic location along the railroad, which facilitated trade and transportation in the region. Over the years, Welsh has retained its agricultural roots, with rice farming and cattle ranching continuing to be important industries in the area.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Welsh High School is the main educational institution in the town, serving students from kindergarten through 12th grade. Welsh is also home to the Welsh Museum, which chronicles the history of the town and its agricultural heritage. Another notable landmark is the town’s historic water tower, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The town also hosts an annual Cajun Music Festival, celebrating the local culture with traditional Cajun music, dancing, and food. In addition, Welsh’s proximity to Lacassine National Wildlife Refuge offers residents and visitors opportunities for birdwatching, fishing, and other outdoor activities.
Elton
Area, Population, and Location Information
- Area: 1.3 square miles
- Population: 1,024 (as of 2020)
- ZIP Code: 70532
- Latitude: 30.4838° N
- Longitude: 92.6968° W
City Location and History
Elton is a small town located in northern Jefferson Davis Parish, near the boundary with Allen Parish. The town was founded in the late 19th century and was originally named “Temple” before being renamed after a railroad worker. Elton grew as an agricultural community, with cotton and rice farming being the main economic activities. The town has a unique cultural blend due to its proximity to the Coushatta Tribe of Louisiana, whose reservation is located nearby. Over the years, Elton has maintained its agricultural roots while also embracing its role as a cultural hub for both the local Native American community and the surrounding rural areas.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Elton High School serves the town’s educational needs, providing a comprehensive K-12 education. One of the town’s key landmarks is the Coushatta Tribe’s Koasati Pines Golf Course, which draws visitors from across the region. The Coushatta Casino Resort, located nearby in Kinder, is another major attraction that boosts the local economy. Elton also celebrates its cultural diversity with events such as the annual Coushatta Powwow, which showcases Native American heritage through traditional dance, music, and art. The town’s small, tight-knit community and proximity to natural attractions like the Kisatchie National Forest make it a peaceful and culturally rich place to visit.
Fenton
Area, Population, and Location Information
- Area: 1.3 square miles
- Population: 379 (as of 2020)
- ZIP Code: 70640
- Latitude: 30.3571° N
- Longitude: 92.9210° W
City Location and History
Fenton is a small village located in the northern part of Jefferson Davis Parish, along U.S. Highway 165. The town was founded in the early 20th century and was primarily an agricultural community, with rice and cattle farming being the main industries. Fenton grew slowly over the years, maintaining its rural character and agricultural economy. The town has also benefited from its proximity to the Coushatta Tribe of Louisiana, whose cultural and economic influence has shaped the region. Today, Fenton is known for its quiet, rural setting and its close-knit community.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Fenton does not have its own school system, so students attend schools in nearby communities like Elton or Kinder. One of the town’s most significant landmarks is its location near the Coushatta Tribe’s reservation, which offers insight into the area’s Native American heritage. The nearby Lacassine National Wildlife Refuge provides opportunities for outdoor activities such as birdwatching and fishing. Fenton also has several historic homes and churches that reflect its agricultural past and rural charm. The town’s peaceful atmosphere and access to natural beauty make it an appealing destination for those seeking a slower pace of life.
