Alco, Louisiana facts for kids

Alco was once a busy town in Vernon Parish, Louisiana, United States. It was known for its large sawmill, which helped process wood from the nearby forests. The town was located along the Red River and Gulf Railroad, about 50 miles from Alexandria.

The Story of Alco

How Alco Got Its Name

Alco got its name from the company that built the sawmill there: the Alexandria Lumber Company. It was first thought of as part of the same community as Kurthwood, which was only three miles away. Before the sawmills were built, the area had a post office called Grant, which was later renamed Nona.

A New Sawmill Town

In 1922, the Alexandria Lumber Company announced big news. They were closing their sawmill in Pineville and moving some of their equipment. This machinery was brought to their new plant in Alco, Vernon Parish. This move helped Alco grow into an important sawmill town.

Community Life in Alco

The community of Alco was home to two different churches. There was a Methodist church and a Baptist church. These churches served as important gathering places for the people living in the town.