2024 Map of Effie

About this map

The Red River meanders through this landscape on the border of Avoyelles and Rapides Parishes, defining a terrain shaped by oxbow lakes and wetlands. Low-lying backwaters such as Champignol Lake and Gin Lake occupy the river's historic floodplain, while the eastern edge is preserved within the Grand Cote National Wildlife Refuge. The settlement pattern follows the higher ground and river bends, ranging from the crossroads at Center Point to the riverside community at Grimes Bluff. Evidence of the area's river-dependent history is seen at David Ferry, where early transit once crossed the channel. Away from the water, the map documents numerous rural landmarks essential for local history, including Oak Grove Cem near Effie, and Saint Catherine Cem further south. The presence of Red-Hawk Airport highlights more modern transportation needs alongside the traditional farm-to-market road network that connects Fifth Ward and Ruby.