Picture this. A bustling railroad yard. The year is 1894. The Illinois Central Railroad is building a repair yard and roundhouse. This marks the beginning of Harahan Louisiana. This quiet town nestled near the Mississippi River would forever be linked to the iron horse.
Harahan. Named for James Theodore Harahan the ICRR President. Its history is intertwined with the railroad’s. Railroad workers river workers and truck farmers formed the early community. Harahan was a crucial point. Before the Huey P Long Bridge it was one of the few places where railcars could cross the mighty Mississippi River. Imagine the massive barges the Mastodon the Mammoth and El Grande. They once called Harahan home. What an impressive sight.
The area wasn’t always just rail lines and industry. It was once part of the Soniat Plantation. A fertile land ideal for farming and raising cattle. Later in the late 1800s part of it became an experimental farm run by Southern University. Think of the rich soil the crops the livestock all contributing to the early economy of Harahan.
Aviation history also touched Harahan. Wedell-Williams on the eastern edge became a major airport. John Moisant a pioneering aviator tragically died there in a plane crash. Harahan honored his memory with Moisant Park later renamed Zeringue Park.
The Huey P Long Bridge changed everything. Opened in 1930 it reduced Harahan’s importance as a rail crossing. But it brought new growth. By 1940 the population had jumped to over 1000. World War II brought even more changes. Camp Plauche was established nearby. Freiburg Mahogany manufacturing produced vital parts for the war effort. Harahan’s population tripled during this period.
The post-war boom continued. By 1960 the population was over 9000. The town modernized its police and fire departments paved streets and built a water treatment plant. The construction of the Earhart Expressway made access to New Orleans easier. Harahan became a popular bedroom community.
Today Harahan is a thriving suburb. Its rich history from plantation to railroad hub to modern community is reflected in its streets parks and the memories of its people. Remember the story of Harahan. A tale of railroads rivers and resilience.