Baker, LA
County: East Baton Rouge
History
Baker, Louisiana is a small city located in East Baton Rouge Parish. The city was originally settled in the early 1800s as part of a Spanish land grant. It was named after Pierre Baker, a local landowner and Confederate soldier during the American Civil War.
In the late 19th century, Baker began to grow as a rural agricultural community, with cotton being the primary crop. The arrival of the railroad in the early 1900s further stimulated the town's economy, allowing for the transportation of both goods and people. Baker continued to expand throughout the early 20th century, with the establishment of schools, churches, and commercial businesses.
During the mid-20th century, Baker experienced significant growth due to the booming oil industry in Louisiana. Many oil companies and related services set up operations in the region, leading to an increase in population and economic activity. However, the oil industry eventually declined, resulting in a period of economic decline for Baker.
In recent years, Baker has focused on revitalizing its economy and community. Efforts have been made to attract new businesses, improve infrastructure, and enhance quality of life for residents. The city has also faced challenges, particularly in 2016 when it was severely affected by flooding resulting from heavy rainfall and a nearby river overflow.
Today, Baker is a diverse and close-knit community with a population of around 13,000 residents. It is known for its small-town charm, historic homes, and local festivals. Baker remains committed to preserving its history and heritage while embracing opportunities for growth and development.
Attractions
Magnolia Mound Plantation
A historic house museum showcasing early Louisiana architecture and culture.
Greenwood Community Park
A 143-acre park offering various recreational activities such as hiking trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, and a lake for fishing.
Baton Rouge Zoo
Located nearby in Baton Rouge, this zoo features a variety of animals and offers educational programs and events.
Southern University Museum of Art
An art museum located on the campus of Southern University showcasing a diverse collection of African, African American, and American art.
Baton Rouge Gallery
A contemporary art gallery located in Baton Rouge featuring rotating exhibitions of local and regional artists.
Louisiana State Capitol
The capitol building of Louisiana, featuring beautiful architecture, historical exhibits, and panoramic views from the observation deck.
USS Kidd Veterans Museum
Located in Baton Rouge, this museum is centered around the WWII destroyer USS Kidd and offers exhibits dedicated to honoring veterans.
Louisiana Art & Science Museum
A museum located in Baton Rouge, featuring rotating art exhibits, a planetarium, and interactive science exhibits.
Bluebonnet Swamp Nature Center
A nature center in Baton Rouge offering guided tours, boardwalks, and trails for observing wildlife and native plants.
Baton Rouge River Center
A multi-purpose venue in Baton Rouge hosting concerts, theatrical performances, sporting events, and more.
Climate
Baker, Louisiana has a humid subtropical climate, which means it experiences hot and humid summers and mild winters. Here are some key characteristics of Baker's climate:
Summers (June to August)
Summers in Baker are typically hot and humid, with high temperatures ranging from the mid-80s to low 90s Fahrenheit (29-35 degrees Celsius). July is usually the warmest month, with average highs around 92°F (33°C). High humidity levels can make the heat feel more intense. Additionally, the region can experience afternoon thunderstorms or showers due to the humid conditions.
Autumns (September to November)
Autumns in Baker are warm and milder compared to summer. Average temperatures range from the mid-70s to low 80s Fahrenheit (24-28 degrees Celsius) in September, gradually dropping to the mid-50s to low 70s Fahrenheit (13-21 degrees Celsius) in November. Rainfall is relatively moderate during this season.
Winters (December to February)
Winters in Baker are generally mild, but occasional cold fronts can bring colder temperatures. Average highs range from the mid-50s to low 60s Fahrenheit (13-16 degrees Celsius), while nighttime temperatures can drop to the mid-30s to mid-40s Fahrenheit (2-7 degrees Celsius). Snowfall is rare in this region.
Springs (March to May)
Springs in Baker are mild and pleasant. Average temperatures gradually increase from the mid-60s to low 70s Fahrenheit (16-21 degrees Celsius) in March to the mid-80s Fahrenheit (29 degrees Celsius) in May. Springtime also brings more rainfall, and occasional thunderstorms can occur.
It is important to note that these are general characteristics of Baker's climate, and annual weather patterns can vary. It is always a good idea to check local weather forecasts for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Neighborhoods
Baker, LA, is a small city located in East Baton Rouge Parish, Louisiana. Although it is a relatively small community, Baker does have a few distinct neighborhoods that offer residents different experiences and amenities. Here are some of the neighborhoods in Baker:
Baker Historic District
This area is the heart of Baker and is home to many of the city's oldest buildings and properties. It features several historic homes, charming streets, and a sense of community history. The Baker Heritage Museum, which showcases local history, is also located here.
Fairmont
Located in the southern part of Baker, Fairmont is a residential neighborhood known for its affordable housing options. It offers a mix of single-family homes and apartments, making it a popular area for first-time homebuyers or individuals looking for rental properties.
Midway Place
Situated in the western part of Baker, Midway Place is a well-established neighborhood with a mix of older and newer homes. It has a suburban feel with tree-lined streets and typically larger plots of land. The area is known for its peaceful atmosphere and is popular among families.
Scotlandville
Although technically not a neighborhood within Baker, Scotlandville is situated just south of the city and is worth mentioning due to its proximity and influence on the community. Scotlandville is a historically African-American neighborhood that is primarily residential. It has a rich cultural heritage and is home to Southern University and A&M College.
Brown Heights
Located in the northern part of Baker, Brown Heights is a smaller, well-knit community. It is known for its close-knit neighborhood feel and well-maintained homes. Brown Heights offers a suburban lifestyle with easy access to amenities such as parks and schools.
Overall, Baker, LA, is a close-knit community with diverse neighborhoods that cater to different preferences and lifestyles. Whether you prefer historic charm, affordability, suburban living, or a sense of community, there is likely a neighborhood in Baker that can meet your needs.