by Carl A. Brasseaux

The Louisiana legislature established Winn Parish on February 24, 1852, carving the new parish from contiguous portions of Catahoula, Natchitoches, and Rapides parishes. Winn Parish is best known as the birthplace of two of Louisiana's most colorful governors—Huey P. Long and Earl K. Long. The far less flamboyant Oscar Kelly Allen, who served as governor of Louisiana from 1932 to 1936, also called Winn Parish home.

The Earl Kemp Long State Commemorative Area honors the political career of the Winn Parish native who served three terms as governor. The commemorative area features an eight-foot-tall bronze statue of Governor Long.

In 2000, Winn Parish had a population of 16,894. Winn Parish's economy is based upon the lumber industry.

PRINCIPAL TOWNS

Atlanta

Dodson

Saint Maurice

Sikes

Winnfield

• Gum Springs Recreational Area
  
• Cloud Crossing Recreational Area