Discover the Rich History and Traditions of Grand Chenier, Louisiana

KNGT | Lake Charles, LA — Lets take a little ride south for this weeks history lesson. Welcome to Grand Chenier, Louisiana, a small coastal town tucked away with a big story to tell. It's a place where mossy oak trees stretch over winding bayous and the salty breeze from the Gulf carries stories of hard work, family, and survival. If you blink, you might miss it, but Grand Chenier holds deep roots in Louisiana’s history that are worth slowing down to explore.

So what does “Grand Chenier” mean? Its a French word for “oak ridge,” describing the oak-covered ridges along the Gulf Coast. The area is part of the Chenier Plain, formed over 1,000 years ago by the shifting of the Mississippi River.

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So who was the first settler ot Grand Chenier? Milledge McCall, who arrived from Mississippi in 1839. Others, like John Armstrong and John W. Sweeney, followed in the 1840s. These early settlers built homes and started farms, laying the foundation for this small community. In 1961, St. Eugene Catholic Church was established by Bishop Maurice Schexnayder, becoming a central place of worship for residents.

Notable People from Grand Chenier, Louisiana

• Conway LeBleu: A longtime Louisiana state representative who served from 1964 to 1988. He was also a farmer and cattleman.
• Ryan Bourriaque: Born in Grand Chenier, he has been serving as a member of the Louisiana House of Representatives since 2019.
• Martin Richard: A World War II veteran from Grand Chenier who received France’s highest decoration, the Legion of Honor, for his service.

Local Festivals in Grand Chenier, Louisiana

Grand Chenier doesn't hosts any festivals but a short drive down the road are several festivals that celebrate its culture and community:​

Cameron Fishing Festival: Held in Cameron, this annual event includes fishing tournaments for various species, with divisions for both adults and juniors.

Whether you're fishing in the Gulf, dancing at a festival down the road, or just taking in the beauty of the oak-lined ridges, Grand Chenier offers a glimpse into a slower, sweeter way of life. Take that ride down Hwy 82 and enjoy!