St. Bernard Parish, LA

St. Bernard Parish, LA St. Bernard Parish, Louisiana is a parish located in the southeastern part of the U.S. state of Louisiana. The parish seat and largest community is Chalmette. The parish was formed in 1807 and named after Saint Bernard of Clairvaux, a French abbot and the primary builder of the reforming Cistercian order.

History[edit | edit source]

St. Bernard Parish has a rich history that dates back to the early 18th century. It was originally part of the Spanish and French colonial empires before becoming part of the United States through the Louisiana Purchase in 1803. The parish is known for the Battle of New Orleans, which took place in 1815 during the War of 1812. The battle was a significant American victory against the British and was led by Andrew Jackson.

Geography[edit | edit source]

St. Bernard Parish is located in the southeastern region of Louisiana, bordered by the Mississippi River to the west and the Gulf of Mexico to the south. The parish has a total area of 2,158 square miles, of which 1,795 square miles is water. The Chandeleur Islands and the Breton National Wildlife Refuge are part of the parish's territory.

Demographics[edit | edit source]

As of the 2020 Census, the population of St. Bernard Parish was approximately 43,764. The parish has a diverse population with a mix of different ethnic and cultural backgrounds. The economy is primarily based on fishing, oil and gas, and tourism.

Education[edit | edit source]

The St. Bernard Parish Public Schools system serves the educational needs of the parish. The system includes several elementary, middle, and high schools, as well as specialized programs and facilities. Nunez Community College is also located in the parish, providing higher education opportunities to residents.

Healthcare[edit | edit source]

St. Bernard Parish is served by several healthcare facilities, including the St. Bernard Parish Hospital. The hospital provides a range of medical services to the community, including emergency care, surgery, and outpatient services.

Transportation[edit | edit source]

The parish is accessible via several major highways, including Louisiana Highway 39 and Louisiana Highway 46. Public transportation is provided by the St. Bernard Urban Rapid Transit (SBURT) system, which offers bus services throughout the parish.

Culture and Recreation[edit | edit source]

St. Bernard Parish is known for its vibrant culture and recreational opportunities. The parish hosts several annual events, including the Louisiana Crawfish Festival and the Islenos Fiesta. Outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and bird watching are popular due to the parish's proximity to the Gulf of Mexico and various wildlife refuges.