Reserve, LA

Reserve, Louisiana is a small town located in St. John the Baptist Parish, southeast of Baton Rouge. The town has a rich history that dates back to the 18th century.

The area where Reserve is now located was originally inhabited by the indigenous Houma and Choctaw tribes. The first European settlers arrived in the early 18th century when French explorers began establishing colonies along the Mississippi River. The land around the future site of Reserve was eventually settled by French and Acadian farmers, who developed the area into fertile plantations utilizing the river for transportation and trade.

The town of Reserve was officially established in 1852 when a post office was opened to serve the growing population. The town derived its name from its strategic location as a reserve supply station for paddlewheel steamboats traveling on the Mississippi River. Reserve became an important hub for the transportation of goods and commodities, particularly sugar and agricultural products.

The 19th century brought significant economic growth to Reserve with the establishment of sugar cane plantations and related industries. The arrival of the Illinois Central Railroad in 1883 further boosted the town's economy, providing a more efficient means of transportation for both goods and people. The town's population grew rapidly during this period, fueled by the success of the sugar industry.

Reserve also has a notable history in the African American community. The town was home to the historic Reserve Colored School, which was built in 1921 to provide education to African American children during segregation. The school served as a center for education and community life for several decades before being replaced by a modern facility.

In the 20th century, Reserve, like many other towns, faced the challenges of economic decline and changes in the agricultural industry. However, the town has managed to maintain its unique identity and sense of community over the years. Today, Reserve has a diverse population and is known for its warm Southern hospitality.

Reserve, Louisiana, continues to honor its past through various historical attractions and events. The San Francisco Plantation, a Greek Revival style mansion built in the mid-19th century, offers visitors an insight into the region's rich past. The town also celebrates its French heritage with an annual Cajun festival called the Andouille Festival, which features music, food, and cultural activities.

Overall, Reserve, Louisiana, has a fascinating history rooted in agricultural development, transportation, and cultural heritage. Despite the challenges faced, the town remains a significant part of the region's history and is a testament to the resilience and pride of its residents.

San Francisco Plantation House

A historic house that offers guided tours showcasing Louisiana's antebellum architecture and culture.

Lake Pontchartrain

A scenic lake offering outdoor activities like fishing, boating, and kayaking.

Evergreen Plantation

A plantation house that is famous for being one of the most intact examples of antebellum Creole plantation complex.

Indian Camp Plantation

A historic plantation house that offers tours to learn about the region's history and architecture.

Lions Playground

A local park with various sports facilities, picnic areas, walking trails, and a playground.

Oak Alley Plantation

Although situated nearby in Vacherie, this plantation is a popular tourist attraction known for its magnificent alley of oak trees and historic mansion.

The Cajun Village

Located in Sorrento, this collection of restored Acadian-style buildings features unique shops offering Cajun-inspired crafts, antiques, and local products.

Whitney Plantation

Another plantation located in Wallace, showcasing the history and lives of enslaved people in Louisiana.

Palmetto Island State Park

A recreational area with camping grounds, hiking trails, and opportunities for fishing and boating.

St. John the Baptist Catholic Church

A beautiful and historic church known for its ornate artwork and stained glass windows.

Reserve, Louisiana has a humid subtropical climate. Summers in Reserve are typically hot and humid, with average high temperatures in the low to mid-90s °F (32-35 °C) and high humidity levels. Nighttime temperatures tend to be in the mid to upper 70s °F (24-26 °C).

Winters in Reserve are mild with cool temperatures. Average high temperatures during the winter months range from the low 60s to the low 70s °F (16-21 °C), with nighttime temperatures dropping to the mid-40s to low 50s °F (7-11 °C).

Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year in Reserve, although the summer months tend to receive slightly more precipitation. The area experiences about 60 inches (1524 mm) of rainfall annually.

Reserve is also located in a region that is susceptible to tropical storms and hurricanes due to its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico. These weather events can bring heavy rainfall, high winds, and storm surge, especially during the Atlantic hurricane season from June to November.

Overall, Reserve, Louisiana experiences a warm and humid climate with distinct seasons.

Reserve, Louisiana is a small town located in St. John the Baptist Parish. It is known for its close-knit community, historic sites, and its proximity to the Mississippi River. While Reserve itself is a relatively small area, there are a few distinct neighborhoods within the town. Let's explore them:

Downtown Reserve

The heart of the town is its downtown area. Here, you will find the historic district that showcases charming old buildings, local businesses, and restaurants. The downtown neighborhood has a mix of residential and commercial properties, offering convenience for both visitors and residents.

Garyville

Located on the western side of Reserve, Garyville is a neighborhood with a rich history in the oil industry. It is home to the Garyville Refinery, which has been an essential part of the community for decades. This area features a mix of residential and industrial properties.

LaPlace Park

LaPlace Park is a residential neighborhood located on the eastern side of Reserve. It offers a tranquil suburban atmosphere with tree-lined streets and well-maintained houses. The neighborhood has easy access to schools and shopping centers, making it appealing to families.

River Road

Reserve is situated along the famous River Road, which runs alongside the Mississippi River. This area features several beautiful plantation homes and scenic river views. It is a popular spot for tourism and offers a glimpse into the region's history and architecture.

Historic Garyville/Reserve

This neighborhood contains several historic landmarks that reflect the cultural heritage of the area. It includes attractions like St. Peter Catholic Church, Nolan People's House, and the Godchaux Sugar Refinery. Residents and visitors can enjoy exploring the historical significance of this neighborhood.

Overall, Reserve, LA, offers a mix of residential, commercial, and historical neighborhoods, all contributing to the town's unique charm and character.