History
Our Story
From Acadian exile to Crawfish Capital - the journey of Breaux Bridge
A Place Called Home
The story of Breaux Bridge begins not in Louisiana, but thousands of miles away in the windswept shores of Acadia - present-day Nova Scotia, Canada. There, French colonists had built a thriving community since the early 1600s. They called themselves Acadians, and they lived in harmony with the land and sea.
In 1755, the British, now in control of the region, demanded the Acadians swear loyalty to the Crown and renounce their Catholic faith. When they refused, the British began “Le Grand Derangement” - the Great Expulsion. Families were torn apart, villages burned, and over 10,000 Acadians were scattered across the Atlantic world.
Over the following decades, many Acadians made their way to Louisiana, then under Spanish rule. They found a landscape unlike anything they had known - vast swamps, winding bayous, and prairies stretching to the horizon. But they also found a home.
The Acadians adapted, blending their French heritage with Spanish, African, Native American, and Caribbean influences to create something entirely new: Cajun culture. And nowhere is that culture more alive than in Breaux Bridge.
Timeline of Breaux Bridge
Le Grand Derangement
British forces expel French Acadians from Nova Scotia. Over the following decades, many make their way to Louisiana, seeking a new home.
Acadians Arrive in Louisiana
The first Acadian refugees arrive in South Louisiana, finding a landscape of bayous and prairies that would become their new homeland.
Firmin Breaux Builds a Bridge
Local farmer Firmin Breaux constructs a suspension bridge across Bayou Teche, creating a vital crossing point that would give our town its name.
Town Founded
The community around Breaux's bridge is officially established as a town, becoming a center of trade and Cajun culture in St. Martin Parish.
Incorporation
Breaux Bridge is formally incorporated as a town, with a growing population of Cajun families, merchants, and tradespeople.
Crawfish Capital of the World
The Louisiana Legislature officially designates Breaux Bridge as the 'Crawfish Capital of the World,' recognizing our deep connection to this beloved crustacean.
First Crawfish Festival
The inaugural Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival draws visitors from across Louisiana, beginning a tradition that continues to this day.
A Living Culture
Breaux Bridge remains a vibrant center of Cajun culture, where traditions are preserved while welcoming visitors from around the world.
Experience Living History
Our history isn't just in museums - it's in every bowl of gumbo, every Zydeco song, and every warm welcome you'll receive.
Explore Our Culture