In this charming town in central Louisiana, the Sweet Dough Pie is the local specialty. Named the “Sweet Dough Pie Capital of the State” by the 2014 Louisiana Legislature, these hand-folded pies are served in shops and restaurants throughout town. The fourth Saturday of October is devoted to the festival, which draws thousands of visitors and enchants locals with its delicious sweet potato, fig, blackberry, and lemon filling.
The Sacred Heart history is also part of the small town’s culture. Students spent the day exploring the city’s past. After attending a prayer service at the Academy of the Sacred Heart, they visited the Shrine of Saint Rose Philippine Duchesne. This historic shrine is located on the campus of the Academy of the Sacred Heart, which is the oldest continuously-operating Sacred Heart school west of the Mississippi. Grand Coteau is a historic town, and will celebrate its bicentennial in 2021.
History buffs can visit a cemetery and the St. John Berchmans Shrine, the second oldest convent west of the Mississippi River. The Academy of the Sacred Heart cemetery has the resting place of more than 100 religious of the Sacred Heart. The cemetery also contains an old-fashioned church and cemetery. Located just west of town is a chapel with stained-glass windows and a large mural depicting the life of Saint John Berchmans.
A new book by photographer John Slaughter documents life in this small town. The book includes photographs of longtime residents and historic buildings in Grand Coteau. The small town, which is located just off the I-49 highway, is a time-defying place of spiritual and cultural significance. While Slaughter’s images are rich in historical context, the book’s intimate photographs evoke a small town spirit.
The Jesuits first came to the area in 1837 and established the St. Charles College as a boarding school. After the school was established, the name was changed to Grand Coteau. During the Civil War, thousands of Confederate soldiers surrounded the property but never touched it. The school’s existence was made possible because Union General Nathaniel Banks, who had a daughter in New York, was asked to care for it.
While the majority of people in the U.S. identify themselves as white, African-Americans, and French and Creoles are not uncommon. Almost 98% of Grand Coteau residents speak only English or speak it well. In the U.S., that number is only about half as high. Among all people in Grand Coteau, there are a few other ethnic groups who are more visible than others.
The Best Western Lafayette Inn offers affordable accommodations. Many have complimentary breakfasts, early check-in, and 24-hour front desks. In addition to free breakfasts, the Best Western Lafayette Inn also offers special packages that can reduce the overall cost of your trip. Many Grand Coteau hotels also offer pet-friendly accommodations and have a gym. The best way to save money on lodging is to book a hotel that offers both amenities and convenience.