1893 Map of Shell Beach

About this map

St Bernard Parish and the marshes of the Mississippi River delta appear here during the late nineteenth century, dominated by the sweeping waters of Lake Borgne. The Louisiana Southern railroad serves as the primary artery for the region, terminating at Shell Beach where the shoreline meets the open water. This rail connection highlights the area's importance as a coastal hub before the shifting geography of the twentieth century altered the landscape. Inland, settlements like Florissant, Yscloskey, and Hopedale are established along the winding course of Bayou La Loutre, following the natural high ground of the bayou levees. Cultural landmarks are noted by the presence of an Artificial Mound 25 Ft. and various other Mounds, indicating a long history of human habitation within this complex network of lagoons and waterways like Sol's Lagoon and Lake Jean Louis Robin (Dime).