Founded as a lumber town in 1914, Bogalusa went from felling trees to paper mills, drawing in thousands seeking employment as it prospered. At the height of the city's manufacturing boom, the Civil Rights Act of 1964 was passed, and the true Civil Rights Movement the city would later be known for began. In a struggle between labor and civil rights, activists A.Z. Young, Robert "Bob" Hicks and many others from the Black community faced racial violence as they took visible stances in the fight for fair wages and equality. In 1967, these activists marched through sundown towns, all 105 miles to Baton Rouge.
Bogalusa maintains an essential portion of history for Louisiana's civil rights. While the population has declined over the years as all but one paper mill shut down, the city keeps hold of a strong community. Its population of 10,700 is largely generational, with economic development initiatives and community support organizations looking toward a bright future. The Bogalusa Paper Mill, now owned by International Paper, employs many residents, and the city's downtown is attracting new small businesses.
Bogalusa is a mix of residential areas and industrial areas.
International Paper is a major employer in Bogalusa and the surrounding area.
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Building with Bogalusa Rebirth
Many properties here were built in the early to mid-20th century, and Bogalusa has struggled with abandoned and neglected homes. Local organizations, such as Bogalusa Rebirth, focus on tearing down blighted properties and building affordable housing. The nonprofit also works with the community to offer homebuyer training and credit counseling programs. The city's median home price is $133,000, significantly lower than the national median. The only residences typically surpassing $300,000 are newer with one or more acres just north of the city proper.
Cottages are common throughout Bogalusa.
Large estate style homes can be found when looking to move to Bogalusa.
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Northshore Technical Community College was Louisiana's first
Bogalusa is served by Bogalusa City Public Schools, rated a C-minus on Niche. While there are several elementary schools that children might attend, there is only one middle and high school. Higher education in the area is available at Northshore Technical Community College, established in 1930 as the first trade school in Louisiana.
Bogalusa High School has 705 students in grades 7-12.
Higher education can be found at Northshore Technical Community College in Bogalusa.
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Working toward revitalization in downtown Bogalusa
While Bogalusa may not have numerous retail plazas, it still has a few essential big-box stores and retailers. Hope Blazo, who grew up in the Bogalusa area and is now a Realtor with Coldwell Banker, says that even its small amount of retail is essential. "It's not a big city by any means, but it has a Walmart, which might as well make it a shopping hub," Blazo says, noting that everyone she knows in Franklinton drives over to Bogalusa most weekends.
The city has devoted efforts to revitalizing its downtown area; Robin Day, the program manager for downtown Bogalusa, began organizing downtown-centric events in 2012. Since then, The Bogalusa Daily News has steadily reported new businesses opening downtown, from specialty shops to restaurants. The Robert "Bob" Hicks House was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2015, and the Robert Hicks Foundation is working on approval for a civil rights museum at the site.
Walmart is one of several major retail outlets in Bogalusa.
In Bogalusa the Bob Hicks House is on the National Register of Historic Places.
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A plan for expansion in Cassidy Park
Bogalusa's Parks, Recreation and Culture Department maintains over a dozen parks and recreation areas. Cassidy Park spans 25 acres and is the place locals come to fish and attend a variety of community events. The Cassidy Park Master Plan outlines development for nearly double the existing acreage, modeling it after City Park in New Orleans.
Cassidy Park is a large park that spans 25 acres.
Enjoy a stroll on the walking path at Goodyear Park.
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Bogalusa meets Franklinton for the Washington Parish Free Fair
In September, thousands come to hear live music and enjoy community at the Bogalusa Blues & Heritage Festival. Blazo notes another event, held in Franklinton, is a must. "The Washington Parish Free Fair is super important to the whole area. Everyone in Bogalusa goes and many participate," he says. "The school marching bands from Bogalusa go to play in the parade, and they shut down businesses and schools. It's a huge deal."
Navigating the rural landscape via Highway 10
The city is intersected by Highway 10, running east to west, and Highway 21. Due to its rural nature, Bogalusa has no public transportation. For air travel, the closest major airport with commercial flights is Gulfport-Biloxi International Airport, located 66 miles southeast. Our Lady of the Angels Hospital is the leading medical center in the city's southwestern corner.
Bogalusa's crime statistics and environment
In 2022, the Louisiana Statistical Analysis Center reported a violent crime rate of 29% and a property crime rate of 15% for Bogalusa, based on its population. The city's crime rates are higher than the state and national averages. However, Louisiana-based news sources reported a decrease in crime rates in 2024, noting the hiring of more police officers. In 2023, Equal Justice USA, a nonprofit, partnered with the Bogalusa community with its Pathways to Healing initiative. The group fosters safe youth spaces and community organizing against violence. Bogalusa experiences hot, humid summers and mild winters, and like many areas of Louisiana, was deeply impacted by Hurricane Katrina. Due to the local paper mills, Blazo says the odor wafts through the city, but it doesn't take long to go "nose blind."
Written By
Kaitie Lamb
Photography Contributed By
Andrew Williams
Video By
Matt Ferguson
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Great Price for this lot in the city with a combination of residential and commercial properties around. Could possibly be re-zoned to Commercial. Flood zone C. Just across the St. Tammany and Washington Line.
This home was fully renovated in 2015 and features no carpeting, beautiful laminate wood and tile flooring! With three bedrooms on the main level, a spacious formal dining room, and a living area complete with cozy wood-burning fireplace, it's great for entertaining! You can unwind on the expansive covered front or back porch. The kitchen boasts stainless steel appliances and granite countertops,
When years of precise planning were coupled with breathtaking views of rolling landscapes, it created a marriage of the perfect property. Welcome to a truly unique hidden gem in Bogalusa, LA. Driving down the blacktop driveway, you pass a beautiful pasture-lined pond to a gorgeous farmhouse that was meticulously thought out in every aspect. This spacious 5 bedroom, 4-1/2 bath layout also offers a
Own Six Gated Acres of Bogalusa’s Heritage – The Goodyear EstateStep into a piece of Louisiana history with The Goodyear Estate, one of Bogalusa’s most storied and historically significant homes. Situated on six gated acres, this remarkable property was built in 1933 by Charles W. Goodyear III, who came from New York to settle in the burgeoning city founded on the lumber industry. The estate
Welcome home to this spacious 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath Brick Ranch style home in Old River Estates. Set on a full acre, this home boasts a sparkling in-ground pool (liner only 3 years). The Kitchen was beautifully renovated, featuring granite countertops and stainless steel appliances. 2 Car garage, dedicated office space, and fenced in yard. Privacy fence around pool with a covered patio which makes it
Beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bath brick home situated on just over an acre! The sunken living area features a stunning 12.5-foot cathedral ceiling and a wood-burning fireplace with a brick accent wall, creating a warm and inviting focal point. The kitchen has stainless steel appliances and opens to a bright breakfast area filled with natural light. Spacious bedrooms provide plenty of room
Charlotte F JohnsonKeller Williams Realty Services
PRICE IMPROVEMENT! This single-family home offers three bedrooms, two full bathrooms, and extra-large room sizes throughout, providing plenty of space for comfortable living and entertaining. Sitting on almost one acre of land in an established neighborhood, this property offers privacy, space, and long-term value.Washer and dryer to remain with the home. The home features a newer architectural
SO CHARMING! Nestled on 2 acres just outside of town, this completely renovated 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath Home is ready for you to make it your own. Renovated in 2022, every detail has been thoughtfully updated - new roof, HVAC, flooring, bathrooms, kitchen and gleaming granite countertops. The sellers have updated new SS appliances, stunning covered wooden deck, along with fresh landscaping, creating a
Prime Corner Location - Hwy 21 & Virginia Ave Excellent opportunity in a high-visibility corner location at Highway 21 (Sullivan Drive) North and Virginia Avenue. According to the owner, the property is currently zoned B - Business; however, zoning should be independently verified by the purchaser and is not guaranteed by the broker or agent. This parcel consists of multiple lots and may offer
Welcome home to this charming, recently updated 2-bedroom, 1-bath gem! Tucked away on a quiet street, this home offers the perfect blend of comfort and privacy. Step inside to find fresh updates throughout, creating a clean and inviting space ready for its next owner. Enjoy peace of mind with a brand-new roof and relax on the cozy screened-in front porch—perfect for morning coffee or unwinding in
Enjoy the space and flexibility of country living with this 3-bedroom, 2-bath mobile home situated on 3.7 cleared acres. Freshly painted interior and new vinyl plank flooring throughout, this home is move-in ready. The large, open living room flows seamlessly into the dining and kitchen area, complete with stainless steel appliances. The spacious primary suite features a soaking tub, separate
Charlotte F JohnsonKeller Williams Realty Services
Bring this Craftsman Style Home back to life with a little work! It could be your diamond in the rough just waiting to be restored! This 2 Bedroom, 1 1/2 Bath has 10 ft ceilings throughout, wood floors, dining room just off kitchen and connected to the living area, some renovations were stared on bathroom that just needs some finishings, the 1/2 bath is located off the kitchen area in the huge
Conveniently located, Columbia Station is a quaint, peaceful community located in Bogalusa, Louisiana, offering 1-, 2-, 3- and 4-bedroom apartment duplexes for rent for individuals and families. All units are equipped with central heat and air, washer/dryer connections, range, refrigerator, and dishwasher.The residents enjoy the community playground, while residents appreciate the
Property Id: 1371202Totally renovated Apartments, everything from hardwood floors ceramic tile in bathroom and kitchen all units come furnished with appliances refrigerator stove and microwave. Less than a 1/2 mile away from everything like Walmart, Fast food restaurants Etc.** Electricity, Water & Gas all included///////////for more info email
FOR LEASE: Cozy Brick Home in Corner Lot in City Limits. One year Lease min. 3 Bedrooms & 2 Bathrooms, Granite Countertops, Dishwasher, stove, Stainless Refrigerator, Washer & Dryer Included. Living room has Cathedral Ceilings with Exposed Beams, Primary Suite with Jetted Tub, Large Covered Back Porch. Oak Tree, Metal Roof, Two-Car Covered Carport, All-Electric Home. Tenants pays for all
BEAUTIFULLY UPDATED, ELECTRICITY & WIFI INCLUDED, WATER/SEWER INCLUDED, LAUNDRY ONSITE, MOVE-IN READY... $750/Month, $750 or more Deposit... Dependent on credit score...Charming, fully updated studio apartments available in Bogalusa! This cozy efficiency unit features a modern kitchen with a refrigerator, over-the-counter microwave, stainless steel sink, pantry, and a 2-burner cooktop. The
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