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.
Welcome to 1429 Sunset Drive – a 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom home nestled on a spacious 0.93-acre lot in the peaceful outskirts of Bogalusa. Tucked away in a serene setting, this property offers the perfect balance of privacy and convenience.Step inside to find a warm and inviting layout, featuring a light-filled living area, a functional kitchen with plenty of cabinet space, and two generously
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 with The Goodyear Estate, one of the city’s oldest and most storied homes. Built in 1933 by Charles W. Goodyear III, who settled from New York. This remarkable estate sits on the site where the first log was harvested by the Great Southern Lumber Company - the very event that gave rise to Bogalusa itself. Rich in craftsmanship and character, the main
Jennifer RiceBerkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred, REALTOR
Country living at its finest! Situated on 4.49 acres of cleared land, this property offers the perfect opportunity to create your own homestead, just add the fencing and the farm animals, and enjoy the wide-open space! The home has been meticulously maintained and features 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, along with a spacious living room, formal dining area, and a breakfast nook off the kitchen.
Charlotte F JohnsonKeller Williams Realty Services
*** GREAT OPPORTUNITY *** Looking to stop renting and having an affordable house note? Enjoy this spacious home with relaxing front porch. Kitchen cabinets to be refurbished, new appliances to be installed, refinish flooring to be done, interior to be painted, new ceiling fans to be installed, sheetrock/ceiling repairs & removal of some fencing. Bath has oversize tub. Large indoor laundry too.
Cute Cottage Style 2 Bedroom, 1 Bath with Gas Fireplace in Living area, ajoining dining area, spacious kitchen with 10 ft ceilings. This one has a lot of character & Charm and is need of some renovations & repairs. House is currently occupied with a long term tenant that may be interested in staying if investor purchase. The property also has an old apartment in the rear that could be renovated
THIS IS A SHORT SALE BRING ALL OFFERS FOR MORTGAGE COMPANY APPROVAL. Located in the heart of Bogalusa Minutes from Mississippi, this spacious 3-bedroom, 3.5-bath home sits on an oversized lot and is full of opportunity. Major updates have already been addressed, including a roof installed in August 2023 (approximately 3 years old) and new HVAC coils installed in 2023. The home also features a
Stunning 3BR Brick Main House completely renovated, detached Mother in law house, Loft apartment above carport, 30 x 40 Workshop all nestled on 19.46 acres with a pond - A MUST SEE! This beautifully renovated home offers the perfect blend of luxury, comfort and modern amenities. Completely remodeled in 2014 down to the studs, this home showcases new electrical, custom hickory cabinets in the
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
Charming 2-Bedroom Cottage with Workshop & Enclosed Porch! Welcome home to this cozy cottage featuring updated flooring, a spacious living area, and custom built-in shelving. Enjoy two large bedrooms, an enclosed back porch for relaxing, and a detached garage with a workshop area plus a separate shed for additional storage. Conveniently located with easy access to local amenities. Refrigerator,
Nestled in the heart of historic Downtown Bogalusa, this inviting 3-bedroom, 1-bath cottage offers a unique blend of character and modern comfort. With its picturesque facade and convenient location ~ peaceful, small-town atmosphere while enjoying all the amenities the city has to offer. PETS ALLOWED WITH NONREFUNDABLE PET FEE OF $400 AND APPROVED ON CASE BY CASE BASIS. Louisiana Housing Voucher
Welcome to this inviting rental opportunity in the heart of Bogalusa, LA! This property offers a comfortable living space that is conveniently located near several department stores and is just an 8-minute drive to Our Lady of the Angels Hospital, making it ideal for both residents and professionals.Key property features include essential heating and cooling amenities, ensuring a cozy
New Unit Available Now! Newly renovated apartment, located on a quiet , dead end street, offering low traffic and aded privacy. Features include updated finishes, fresh paint, new appliances, and a clean, modern feel throughout. Greatl for tenants seeking a peaceful setting with comfortable living space. Washer and dryer included for added convenience. Water paid by owner. Pets accepted with
This 4-bedroom, 2-bath home on a half-acre lot offers plenty of space and a comfortable layout, both inside and out. The front porch is welcoming, and the large backyard gives you room to relax, play, or enjoy some fresh air. Inside, the living room is bright with natural light and flows into the kitchen and dining area. The kitchen has good counter space, plenty of cabinets, and a layout that
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