1955 Map of Grand Lake West

About this map

Grand Lake and the Lacassine National Wildlife Refuge dominate this coastal landscape, illustrating the complex hydrology of mid-century Cameron Parish. The map reveals a region defined by its ridges and cheniers—elevated sandy strands that supported early settlements like Grand Chenier and Portie amidst the surrounding marshes. Cultural life is anchored along these ridges, with the Grand Chenier High Sch, Little Chenier Ch, and family burial sites such as Boudoin Cem and Chenier Perdue Cem providing critical genealogical touchpoints. The heavy industrial footprint of the era is evident through the Intracoastal Waterway and various energy developments, including the Lowry Oil and Gas Field and the Grand Chenier Gas Field. Local recreation also leaves its mark, most notably with a Drive-in Theater located south of the Mermentau River.