From Riverbanks to Piney Woods: The History of Grant Parish

The story of Grant Parish is deeply woven into the fabric of Louisiana and the nation. Carved from the rolling hills and dense pine forests of Central Louisiana, its history is one of new beginnings, profound challenges, and the enduring spirit of its people.

A Post-War Beginning

Established on March 4, 1869, Grant Parish was born during the Reconstruction era. By naming our parish after President Ulysses S. Grant and our seat after Schuyler Colfax, our founders signaled a vision of national alignment and progress that the Grant Parish Chamber carries forward today.

Ulysses S. Grant

18th President of the United States

In office

March 4, 1869 – March 4, 1877

"The will of the people is the best law."

Ulysses S. Grant

Schuyler Colfax

17th Vice President of the United States

In office

March 4, 1869 – March 4, 1873

A dense longleaf pine and cypress forest in Grant Parish, representing the historical timber boom and the natural landscape of the Kisatchie National Forest.

The Timber Boom and a Changing Landscape

As the 19th century turned into the 20th, Grant Parish's fate became linked to its longleaf pine forests. The railroad spurred a timber boom, rapidly developing towns like Pollock and Dry Prong around sawmills. This logging era shaped the local economy and communities, but eventually transitioned into conservation, leading to the establishment of the Kisatchie National Forest, which preserves the region's natural beauty.

Pollock & Dry Prong: Developed as vital sawmill hubs during the 1901 railroad expansion.

Montgomery: Historically known as Creola Bluff, serving as a critical Red River steamboat port.

The modern exterior of the new Georgetown PreK-12 school facility in Grant Parish, representing the community's modern resilience and investment in education.

A Legacy of Resilience

Grant Parish has evolved throughout the 20th century and continues to do so today. While the timber industry remains important, the economy has diversified, supported by fertile lands along the Red River and a strong agricultural community. The history of Grant Parish is rooted in hard work and deep community ties, creating a legacy of resilience that shapes our future.

Georgetown: A testament to modern resilience with the 2025 opening of the new PreK-12 school facility.

Mission Statement

The Grant Parish Chamber of Commerce is a volunteer organization whose goal is to promote business for the purpose of advancing the commercial, industrial, agricultural, educational, and civic interests of the Parish of Grant and all its citizens.

This includes, but not limiting itself to, the following:

to enhance or promote historical sites, records or enactments
to assist in the preservation of natural resources
to promote the acquisition of land for preservation
to promote preservation of scientific beauty
to promote wildlife sanctuary or refuge; and other conservation, environmental, or beautification activities

The Chamber’s further purposes and objectives are to operate and engage in programs and activities that are beneficial to the public interest in erecting and/or maintaining public buildings, monuments, museums, natural wilderness or works, etc; combating community deterioration and juvenile delinquency.