Plaquemine, LA

Plaquemine is a city in Iberville Parish, Louisiana, located about 12 miles south of Baton Rouge. Its name is derived from the French word "Plaquemine" which means "persimmon."

The area where Plaquemine is located has a rich Native American history, with evidence of settlements dating back to at least 1200 BCE. The local Native American tribes included the Bayougoula, Chitimacha, and Houma.

In the 18th century, French and Spanish explorers arrived in the area. The French established a fort, Fort Saint-Pierre, in 1706, which served as a trading post. This fort was later taken over by the Spanish, who used it as a base to establish control over the region.

Plaquemine's growth was largely driven by the plantation economy, with cotton being the primary crop. During the antebellum period, wealthy planters built grand homes in the area and relied on enslaved labor to work the fields. The city was an important port on the Mississippi River, allowing for the transport of goods to and from the plantations.

During the Civil War, Plaquemine saw significant military action. Union troops occupied the city in 1862, leading to the partial destruction of Fort Desaix, a Confederate stronghold. Plaquemine was also the site of a naval engagement in 1863 known as the Battle of Plaquemine.

Following the war, Plaquemine experienced economic decline. The end of slavery disrupted the plantation economy, and the city struggled to find a new economic base. However, a resurgence occurred in the early 20th century with the expansion of the petrochemical industry in the region, attracting investment and creating jobs.

Today, Plaquemine is a small, but vibrant city. It is home to several historical landmarks, including the Plaquemine Lock State Historic Site, which preserves the ruins of a late 19th-century lock system. The city also hosts an annual Lagniappe Dulac festival, showcasing the local culture and heritage.

Despite its historical significance, Plaquemine, along with much of the surrounding area, faces challenges due to its location along the Mississippi River. Flooding and coastal erosion threaten the community, and efforts are underway to protect and preserve the region.

Plaquemine Lock State Historic Site

The site features a lock system built in the early 1900s and offers guided tours, exhibits, and a visitor center showcasing the importance of the lock in transportation history.

Iberville Museum

This museum provides a glimpse into the rich history of the region, including exhibits on Native American artifacts, colonial history, the Louisiana Purchase, and more.

Plaquemine Depot Market

A vibrant weekend market featuring local vendors, food stalls, live music, and a friendly community atmosphere.

Bayou Plaquemine Waterfront Park

This beautiful waterfront park offers a walking trail, picnic areas, and a gazebo, providing a relaxing spot to enjoy the scenic views of Bayou Plaquemine.

Plaquemine Community Center

This multipurpose facility hosts various events throughout the year, including festivals, concerts, art exhibits, and more.

Plaquemine Lock Golf Course

This 9-hole golf course is located near the Plaquemine Lock State Historic Site and provides a challenging game along with picturesque views of the surrounding area.

Nottoway Plantation

Though not located directly in Plaquemine, Nottoway Plantation is a short drive away and is worth a visit. This grand antebellum mansion offers guided tours and stunning architecture.

Choctaw Casino

A casino located near Plaquemine offering various gaming options, restaurants, and entertainment.

These are just a few attractions in and around Plaquemine, LA, but the area also offers a variety of recreational activities, fishing spots, historic landmarks, and cultural events to explore and enjoy.

Plaquemine, a city located in Iberville Parish, Louisiana, experiences a humid subtropical climate. This region generally has hot and humid summers, mild winters, and abundant rainfall throughout the year.

Summers in Plaquemine are hot and often characterized by high humidity. Average high temperatures in June, July, and August range from the upper 80s to low 90s Fahrenheit (around 31-34 degrees Celsius), with occasional days reaching into the mid-90s (around 35-37 degrees Celsius). Heat indexes can be quite high due to the humidity levels, making it feel even hotter. Thunderstorms are common during the summer months, providing some relief from the heat.

Winters in Plaquemine are typically mild with occasional cold fronts. Average high temperatures in December, January, and February range from the upper 50s to mid-60s Fahrenheit (around 13-18 degrees Celsius). Although frosts do occur, snowfall is very rare in this region. However, occasional winter storms can bring freezing rain or sleet.

Rainfall is spread relatively evenly throughout the year in Plaquemine, with the wettest months typically being May, June, and July. Annual precipitation in the area averages around 60 inches (152 cm). Thunderstorms are common during the summer months, often bringing heavy rain, but they can occur at any time of the year.

Plaquemine is also susceptible to tropical storms and hurricanes, as it is located along the Gulf Coast. These events can bring heavy rainfall, strong winds, and storm surges to the area, typically during the Atlantic hurricane season from June to November.

In summary, Plaquemine, LA, has a humid subtropical climate characterized by hot and humid summers, mild winters, and relatively high annual rainfall.

Plaquemine is a small city located in Iberville Parish, Louisiana. While it is not a large city, Plaquemine is known for its rich history and close-knit community. There are several neighborhoods within Plaquemine, each with its own unique characteristics. Here are some of the different neighborhoods in Plaquemine, LA:

Downtown Plaquemine

The heart of the city, Downtown Plaquemine is where you'll find historic buildings, local businesses, and charming streets. This area is known for its picturesque views of the Mississippi River and is a popular spot for festivals and community events.

Belleview Acres

Located north of Downtown Plaquemine, Belleview Acres is a residential neighborhood known for its quiet streets and family-friendly atmosphere. The area features a mix of newer homes and older, well-established houses.

City Park

Situated near the center of Plaquemine, City Park is a peaceful neighborhood with plenty of green spaces and recreational facilities. The park itself offers walking paths, playgrounds, and sports fields, making it a favorite spot for outdoor activities.

Eden Park

Located in the western part of Plaquemine, Eden Park is known for its larger homes and spacious lots. This neighborhood offers a more suburban feel, with many properties surrounded by trees and greenery.

Belle Meade

Positioned on the eastern side of Plaquemine, Belle Meade is a neighborhood with a mix of residential homes and commercial areas. It has easy access to major roadways and is close to schools, making it a convenient location for families.

River Road

Running along the Mississippi River, the River Road neighborhood is characterized by its beautiful views and scenic landscapes. Many homes in this area are elevated due to the risk of flooding, and residents can take advantage of the proximity to the river for fishing and boating.

These are just a few examples of the neighborhoods you can find in Plaquemine, LA. Each neighborhood offers its own unique qualities and amenities, contributing to the overall charm and character of the city.