Morehouse Parish, LA

Morehouse Parish is a parish located in the northeastern part of the U.S. state of Louisiana. As of the 2020 census, the population was 25,281. The parish seat is Bastrop. The parish was formed in 1844.

History

Morehouse Parish was established in 1844 from parts of Ouachita Parish. It was named after Abraham Morehouse, a prominent figure in the early history of the area. The region has a rich history, including its role in the American Civil War and its development during the Reconstruction era.

Geography

According to the United States Census Bureau, the parish has a total area of 805 square miles, of which 795 square miles is land and 10 square miles (1.2%) is water. The parish is part of the Monroe, Louisiana metropolitan area.

Adjacent parishes

• Union Parish (northwest)
• West Carroll Parish (northeast)
• Richland Parish (southeast)
• Ouachita Parish (southwest)

Major highways

• U.S. Route 165
• Louisiana Highway 2
• Louisiana Highway 139

Demographics

As of the 2020 census, there were 25,281 people, 9,765 households, and 6,512 families residing in the parish. The population density was 32 people per square mile. The racial makeup of the parish was 55.2% White, 42.3% African American, 0.4% Native American, 0.3% Asian, and 1.8% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.2% of the population.

Economy

The economy of Morehouse Parish is primarily based on agriculture, forestry, and manufacturing. The parish is known for its production of cotton, soybeans, and timber. The International Paper mill in Bastrop was a significant employer until its closure in 2008.

Education

Morehouse Parish is served by the Morehouse Parish School Board, which operates several public schools in the area. The parish is also home to the Bastrop High School.

Communities

City

• Bastrop (parish seat)

Town

• Bonita

Village

• Collinston
• Mer Rouge
• Oak Ridge

Unincorporated communities

• Beekman
• Galion
• Jones
• Log Cabin

Notable people

• Henry L. Fuqua, 38th Governor of Louisiana
• Willie Davenport, Olympic gold medalist in track and field

See also

• National Register of Historic Places listings in Morehouse Parish, Louisiana
• List of parishes in Louisiana