L’Observateur / February 18, 1998

In recent months, the Godchaux House Historical Society has worked hard, especially in cooperation with the Reserve Lions Club and the Port of South Louisiana, to protect and preserve for future generations the heritage of the former Godchaux Sugar Refinery.

While some people talk historical preservation and cultural development, this organization of dedicated people has forged ahead. First, by acquiringand rescuing the house and then by working to salvage historical artifacts from the refinery, now in its last days of being razed by the expanding Globalplex facility, the Society has proven involved and interested citizens can accomplish much with community support.

Future plans include a festival and an annual formal fund-raiser dinner, all aimed at expanding the Society’s role in St. John the Baptist Parish’scultural scene. Not only will the history and social impact of GodchauxSugar Refinery be remembered and preserved for the future, but also the River Parishes’ role in the Louisiana Sugar Industry be presented in an educational and cultural way. Links with the Sugar Queen pageant are alsounder consideration.

Much has been done, but much remains to be done. We at L’Observateurencourage former Godchaux employees to band together to assist in memory of those “good old days” and also encourage support by the community at large.

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