National Register of Historic Places listings in Jefferson Davis Parish, Louisiana facts for kids

Location of Jefferson Davis Parish in Louisiana

Have you ever wondered about old buildings and places that are super important to history? In Jefferson Davis Parish, Louisiana, there are many special spots listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This is like a special list kept by the United States government to protect buildings, sites, and objects that are important for their history, architecture, archaeology, engineering, or culture. When a place is on this list, it means it's recognized as a valuable part of our country's past and should be preserved for future generations.

Jefferson Davis Parish is located in Louisiana, a state known for its rich history and unique culture. This parish has 17 places that are currently on the National Register, and one place that used to be on the list. These places include old houses, churches, and even a library, each telling a story about what life was like long ago in this part of Louisiana.

What is the National Register of Historic Places?

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the nation's historic places worthy of preservation. It's part of a bigger program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America's historic and archaeological resources. Being on the list helps people understand the importance of these places and sometimes helps get funding to keep them in good shape.

Historic Buildings in Jefferson Davis Parish

Many of the historic places in Jefferson Davis Parish are old homes. These houses show us how people lived, what kind of styles were popular, and how communities grew over time.

Homes with History

• Angelus: This historic home in Jennings was added to the list in 1993. It's a great example of the architecture from its time.
• Calkins-Orvis House: Located in Welsh, this house joined the Register in 1998. It stands as a reminder of the early days of the town.
• Camp Hamilton House: Another Jennings home, listed in 2004, showing the architectural styles of the early 20th century.
• Derouen House: This Jennings house, listed in 1991, is a significant example of local residential architecture.
• Silas J. Fenton House: Found in Fenton, this house was added in 1994. It tells a story about the people who settled and built the town.
• J.E. Foster House: A Jennings home listed in 1994, important for its design and connection to the community's past.
• Funk House: This Jennings house, listed in 1993, is another example of the area's historic homes.
• Ilgenhurst: Also in Jennings, listed in 1993, this property adds to the collection of historically significant residences.
• F.R. Jaenke House: This Jennings home, listed in 1993, showcases the architectural heritage of the city.
• T.C. Mahaffey House: A Jennings residence listed in 1993, contributing to the understanding of the city's development.
• S.A. Pennington House: Located in Elton, this house was listed in 1994. It's a notable building in the Elton community.
• Sunny Meade: This Jennings property, listed in 1985, is one of the older listings in the parish, highlighting its long-standing importance.
• Twitchell House: Another Jennings home, listed in 1993, adding to the rich collection of historic houses.

Important Public Buildings

• Jennings Carnegie Public Library: This library in Jennings was listed in 1982. Carnegie libraries were built all over the country with money from Andrew Carnegie, a famous businessman. They were very important for spreading knowledge and education.
• Jennings Post Office: The post office in Jennings, listed in 1982, is an example of a public building that played a key role in connecting the community.
• More Mileage Gas Station: This unique gas station in Jennings, listed in 2004, shows how everyday places can also become historic. It represents a time when cars and travel became more common.
• Strand Theatre: The Strand Theatre in Jennings, listed in 1998, was a place where people gathered for entertainment. Theaters like this were central to community life before television and the internet.

Places of Worship

• Elton United Methodist Church: This church in Elton was listed in 1994. Churches are often important historical sites because they are central to community life and often feature beautiful architecture.

Former Listings

Sometimes, a property might be removed from the National Register. This can happen if it's destroyed, or if it loses its historical importance due to major changes.

• Fruge Store: This store in Elton was listed in 1994 but was later removed from the Register in 2016.

Images for kids

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  The Elton United Methodist Church, a historic place of worship in Elton.

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  The S.A. Pennington House in Elton, recognized for its historical significance.