Remember the name Louis-Xavier Martin de Lino de Chalmette. Chalmette got its name from this plantation owner. He hailed from Quebec. The name Chalmette means pasture or fallow land in French. It traces back to the Proto-Celtic word “kalm”.
The Battle of New Orleans was fought here in Chalmette in January 1815. American forces under Major General Andrew Jackson triumphed. They defeated the British forces led by brevet Lieutenant General Sir Edward Pakenham. Jackson ordered the Chalmette plantation destroyed. This prevented the British from using it for cover.
Chalmette’s history is deeply intertwined with the War of 1812. The Chalmette Battlefield preserves the site of this pivotal battle. You can explore the battlefield and learn about the war at the visitor center. A self-guided walking tour is available. Climb the Chalmette Monument for panoramic views. This 100-foot-high obelisk honors those who fought here.
Nearby lies the Chalmette National Cemetery. Veterans from various wars rest here. These include the War of 1812, the Civil War, and the Vietnam War. The cemetery covers 17.5 acres. It holds over 15,300 veterans.
The Greek Revival-style Malus-Beauregard House stands near the battlefield. Built in 1830, it is open to the public.
Hurricane Katrina devastated Chalmette in 2005. A 25-foot storm surge flooded most of the town. Waters reached as high as 15 feet in some areas. Many buildings were deemed unsalvageable. A large oil spill from Chalmette’s Murphy Oil facility added to the disaster.
Chalmette has shown resilience in recovery. St. Bernard Parish has celebrated Mardi Gras with parades here. The krewe of the Knights of Nemesis paraded in February 2006. They passed buildings still in ruins.
As of early 2008 many businesses had returned. Schools reopened. The population however remains significantly below pre-Katrina levels.
Today Chalmette stands as a testament to history and resilience. It is a place where a pivotal battle shaped American identity. It is a community that has faced devastation. It is a place that rebuilt itself. As you leave Chalmette, remember its stories of conflict, loss, and renewal.