Violet, LA

County: St. Bernard

History

Violet, Louisiana

Violet, Louisiana is a small unincorporated community located in St. Bernard Parish, on the southeastern tip of Louisiana, United States. The area's history can be traced back to the early 18th century when it was settled by French immigrants.

The name "Violet" is believed to have originated from the vibrant purple wildflowers that bloomed abundantly in the area during the early settlement period. The settlement initially consisted of a few isolated farms and small fishing communities, mainly focused on the rich natural resources of the surrounding marshlands.

During the 19th century, Violet and the rest of St. Bernard Parish experienced significant growth and development due to its ideal location close to the Mississippi River. The river served as an important transportation route, allowing for easy access to New Orleans and facilitating trade and commerce. The fertile land also attracted farmers, leading to the establishment of large plantations that produced sugar and other agricultural products.

However, Violet's history took a devastating turn when it was hit by numerous natural disasters. In 1893, a massive hurricane known as the Great Cheniere Shake struck the region, causing widespread destruction and loss of life. Then in 1915, a massive hurricane known as the Great Storm of 1915 further ravaged the area, wiping out entire communities and resulting in a significant decline in population.

Despite these setbacks, Violet gradually recovered, and by the mid-20th century, it became an important hub for the local oil and gas industry. The extraction and refining of oil and gas, as well as related industries, brought new economic opportunities to the area and spurred growth and development.

Unfortunately, Violet's history also includes a devastating event in modern times. In 2005, Hurricane Katrina, one of the most destructive hurricanes in U.S. history, made landfall in the region. The storm surge caused significant flooding, destroying many homes and businesses. The aftermath of Hurricane Katrina resulted in the displacement of many residents and a long process of recovery and rebuilding.

Today, Violet remains a small but resilient community. It has experienced ongoing efforts to rebuild and revitalize the area. The oil and gas industry continues to play a significant role in the local economy, along with fishing and other industries. The community also benefits from its proximity to New Orleans, with many residents commuting to work in the city.

Violet, Louisiana, like many other parts of the region, has a rich and challenging history. From its early days as a small French settlement to its growth, destruction, and subsequent recovery, the community has persevered through various natural disasters and economic changes, shaping its identity and character.

Attractions

Bayou Barn

Violet, Louisiana is a small unincorporated community located in St. Bernard Parish. While it may not have as many attractions as larger cities, there are still some places of interest worth visiting in the area. Here are a few attractions in or near Violet:

Bayou Barn

This charming venue offers a variety of activities such as horseback riding, zip-lining, and tractor-pulled hayrides. It is a great place to spend a day outdoors with family or friends.

Fort Proctor

Located on Lake Borgne, Fort Proctor is an abandoned 19th-century fort that offers a glimpse into the area's history. It is accessible by boat and serves as a popular spot for fishing, picnicking, and exploring.

Violet Oyster Festival

If you happen to visit during the annual Violet Oyster Festival, you can enjoy live music, delicious seafood, and various entertainment options. The festival celebrates the area's rich oyster farming heritage.

Chalmette Battlefield and National Cemetery

This historic site, located a short drive from Violet, commemorates the Battle of New Orleans during the War of 1812. Visitors can explore the battlefield, learn about the battle's significance, and pay respects at the adjacent national cemetery.

Crescent Park

While not directly in Violet, Crescent Park is a picturesque park located in New Orleans' Bywater neighborhood, just a short drive away. It offers beautiful views of the Mississippi River, walking paths, and green spaces to relax and enjoy the outdoors.

Keep in mind that Violet is a small community, so the attractions are relatively limited. However, the proximity to New Orleans allows for easy access to a wide range of cultural, culinary, and historical attractions in the area.

Climate

Violet, Louisiana is located in the southern part of the United States, specifically in St. Bernard Parish. It has a humid subtropical climate, which means that it experiences hot, humid summers and mild winters. Here are some key characteristics of the climate in Violet:

Summers

Summers in Violet are hot and humid, with average high temperatures ranging from the mid-80s to the low 90s Fahrenheit (29-34 degrees Celsius). Heatwaves with temperatures exceeding 100°F (38°C) are not uncommon. The humidity levels can make the air feel even hotter, and occasionally afternoon thunderstorms provide relief from the heat.

Winters

Winters in Violet are mild and generally pleasant. Average high temperatures range from the mid-60s to low 70s Fahrenheit (17-23 degrees Celsius). It rarely snows in Violet, with any snowfall being extremely rare and usually not accumulating on the ground. However, temperatures can occasionally drop below freezing during colder months.

Rainfall

Violet experiences a significant amount of rainfall throughout the year, with the wettest months being from May to September. Annual precipitation is around 60 inches (152 cm), and thunderstorms are a common occurrence during the summer months.

Hurricane season

As Violet is located along the Gulf Coast, it is susceptible to tropical storms and hurricanes. The Atlantic hurricane season officially extends from June 1 to November 30, with the peak activity typically occurring between August and October. Residents should be prepared for the possibility of hurricanes and tropical storms during this time.

Overall, Violet, LA has a typical Gulf Coast climate characterized by hot, humid summers, mild winters, abundant rainfall, and the potential threat of tropical storms and hurricanes during hurricane season.

Neighborhoods

Violet, Louisiana is a small unincorporated community located in St. Bernard Parish. While Violet itself is not divided into distinct neighborhoods, there are several nearby areas that can be considered part of the greater Violet community. Here are some notable neighborhoods and areas that are close to Violet:

Meraux

Located just west of Violet, Meraux is a neighboring community that shares similar characteristics. Meraux is primarily a residential area with a mix of single-family homes and some commercial establishments. It is known for its tight-knit community and family-friendly atmosphere.

Chalmette

To the northwest of Violet lies Chalmette, the largest town in St. Bernard Parish. Chalmette offers a variety of residential neighborhoods with a range of housing options, including apartments, townhouses, and single-family homes. It also has a bustling commercial district that caters to the needs of the surrounding communities.

Arabi

Located northeast of Violet, Arabi is another nearby neighborhood in St. Bernard Parish. Arabi is known for its historic charm, with many well-preserved Creole cottages and traditional shotgun houses. Over the years, it has experienced revitalization efforts that have brought in new businesses and increased community engagement.

Poydras

Situated to the south of Violet is the area of Poydras, named after Julien Poydras, a prominent figure in Louisiana history. Poydras is primarily a rural community with a blend of residential, agricultural, and commercial properties. The area is known for its wide-open spaces and serene atmosphere.

Paris Road Corridor

Running through Violet is Paris Road, which serves as one of the main transportation routes in the area. Along Paris Road, you will find a mix of commercial and industrial developments, such as shopping centers, restaurants, and manufacturing facilities. This corridor serves as an economic hub for the surrounding communities.

Overall, the neighborhoods surrounding Violet, LA provide a variety of housing options, amenities, and community atmospheres, making it an appealing place to live for those seeking a suburban lifestyle with access to urban conveniences.

Nearby Cities