Louisiana is a state with a rich history. From well known locations such as the Buckner Mansion (even more so known as the house used in American Horror Story: Coven) to people such as Odell Beckham, Jr., Louis Armstrong, and Hank Williams, Jr., Louisiana is a state with such a diverse history that it’s almost impossible to believe. Louisiana is also full of a smaller scale history that most people don’t know.
One of those cherished pieces of history is a bridge hidden in plain sight in the southwest corner of Jefferson Davis Parish. KATC reported on the bridge and here are the details.
The Lorrain Bridge sits above the slow waters of the Bayou Lacassine and connects Jefferson Davis Parish with Calcasieu Parish. It sets the background for Lorrain Park and is used by locals to take photographs, spend time with loved ones, and, oftentimes, get married.
The original Lorrain Bridge was built during the 1800s when the Lorrain family came to Louisiana from France. Originally, the Lorrain Bridge was constructed as a drawbridge between Lacassine and Bell City- primarily used to service a local saw mill. It was also used as transportation for local farmers and as the main way to move cattle in the area. This changed at the turn of the 20th century when the bridge was damaged and replaced with a wooden span.
The wooden span remained for over a hundred years- the drawbridge portion being taken out of service during the 1950s. As time continued, the bridge took a lot of damage from wind, rain, and other natural occurrences. It was closed to the public and, eventually, announced to be completely demolished. After hearing the news, the local community came together to prevent the bridge’s destruction and save their piece of history.
Through the powers of Jefferson Davis Parish, Calcasieu Parish, and the Lorrain Bridge Association, the community, joined by descendants of the Lorrain family that built the bridge, saved the bridge. Together, the community raised upwards of $300,000. The community, however, did not stop at successfully saving the bridge. Their funds were also used to build a new one. The new Lorrain Bridge was completed and opened for traffic once again in 2004. In true Louisiana fashion, some of the old deck planks are now a part of a new visitors’ center to serve as a tribute to the old bridge.
The Lorrain Bridge is a current testament to the historic side of Louisiana. The design and construction of the bridge are so incredibly unique that the bridge is being considered for the National Historic Register. The bayou air is filled with the sounds of birds with cypress trees along the banks. Moss hangs beautifully from the trees. The sight is a testament to the classic beauty of southern Louisiana.
The Lorrain Bridge is located near Bell City, Louisiana between Jennings and Lake Charles. At the foot of the bridge is Lorrain Park. The park has an outdoor pavilion, camper and tent sites, a boat launch, and picnic tables. There are nine RV camper sites with electricity that are available for renting.
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