by Carl A. Brasseaux

In March 1832, the state legislature created Carroll Parish, which stretched from Morehouse Parish on the west to the Mississippi River on the east. On March 26, 1877, legislation signed by Louisiana's governor divided Carroll Parish into eastern and western parts divided by Bayou Macon. The parish was divided because the western portion of the parish, which was a hotbed of Democratic Party activity, was at odds with the pro-Republican eastern half. Oak Grove was designated the seat of justice in newly created West Carroll Parish.

West Carroll Parish is best known for the Poverty Point national landmark, one of the nation's most important Native American archaeological sites. Poverty Point is located approximately five miles east of Epps.

PRINCIPAL TOWNS

Oak Grove

Epps

Kilbourne

Forest

Pioneer