1953 Map of Napoleonville

About this map

Napoleonville and the surrounding river-and-rail corridor along Bayou Lafourche anchor the eastern half of this 1953 survey, showcasing the dense linear settlement patterns of the Louisiana sugar belt. The map documents numerous historic agricultural estates including Little Texas Plantation, Oakley Plantation, and Ravenwood Plantation, each situated on the higher natural levees. Beyond the cultivated land, the landscape transitions into the watery expanse of Lake Verret and the Belle River, where industry is represented by the Lake Verret Oil Field and the West Lake Verret Oil and Gas Field. The intricate network of smaller waterways like Bayou Magazille and Bayou Long contrasts with the industrial activity of the Texas and Pacific and Southern Pacific railroads that connect settlements such as Paincourtville and Plattenville.