Winn Parish, LA

Winn Parish is a parish located in the U.S. state of Louisiana. As of the 2020 census, the population was 13,755. The parish seat is Winnfield. The parish was founded in 1852 and named after Walter Winn, a local leader and politician.

History

Winn Parish was established in 1852 from parts of Natchitoches, Catahoula, and Rapides Parishes. The area has a rich history, including its role in the American Civil War and its significance in the political history of Louisiana.

Geography

According to the United States Census Bureau, the parish has a total area of 957 square miles (2,480 km²), of which 950 square miles (2,460 km²) is land and 7.0 square miles (18 km²) (0.7%) is water.

Adjacent parishes

• Jackson Parish (north)
• Caldwell Parish (northeast)
• La Salle Parish (east)
• Grant Parish (south)
• Natchitoches Parish (west)
• Bienville Parish (northwest)

Demographics

As of the 2020 census, there were 13,755 people, 5,500 households, and 3,800 families residing in the parish. The population density was 14 people per square mile (5.4/km²). The racial makeup of the parish was 70.2% White, 27.1% African American, 0.5% Native American, 0.3% Asian, and 1.9% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.5% of the population.

Economy

The economy of Winn Parish is primarily based on agriculture, forestry, and oil and gas extraction. The parish is also known for its timber industry, which has been a significant part of its economic development.

Education

Winn Parish is served by the Winn Parish School Board, which operates several public schools in the area. The parish is also home to a number of private and parochial schools.

Transportation

Major highways in Winn Parish include:

• U.S. Route 167
• U.S. Route 84
• Louisiana Highway 34
• Louisiana Highway 126

Communities

City

• Winnfield (parish seat)

Towns

• Dodson
• Sikes

Villages

• Atlanta
• Calvin
• Tullos (partly in La Salle Parish)

Unincorporated communities

• Gaars Mill
• Joyce
• Jordan Hill
• Tannehill

Notable People

• Huey P. Long, former Governor of Louisiana and U.S. Senator
• Earl K. Long, former Governor of Louisiana
• O.K. Allen, former Governor of Louisiana

See also

• National Register of Historic Places listings in Winn Parish, Louisiana
• List of parishes in Louisiana
• Louisiana political history