by Carl A. Brasseaux

The Louisiana legislature established Morehouse Parish in 1844. Encompassing 802 square miles, Morehouse Parish was named for Abraham Morehouse, a pioneer settler. Bastrop, the parish seat, is the namesake of the Baron de Bastrop, who received an enormous Spanish landgrant in the area.

Throughout its history, Morehouse Parish has been an important agricultural area. It is thus hardly surprising that the parish affords abundant opportunities for outdoor activities. Visit the Chemin a Haut State Park near the Arkansas state line. The park is widely noted for its natural beauty.

PRINCIPAL TOWNS

Bastrop

Bonita

Collinston

Mer Rouge

Oak Ridge

FESTIVALS

Farm Fest

Alligator Festival

North Louisiana Cotton Festival and Fair

Bastrop Fall Arts and Crafts Festival