Broussard (Images of America)

By: Linda A. Meaux

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Synopsis: As early as 1765, Acadians began to settle near St. Martinville in the center of an area known as Côte Gelée, or "Frozen Hill," due to seasonal cold temperatures that covered the Mississippi River with ice. These early settlers were exiles from Acadie (now Nova Scotia, Canada). They established farms that, in the early 1800s, became interspersed among expanding sugar plantations. With a motto of "Where our rich culture defines us," Broussard is one of the fastest growing cities in Louisiana today. Embracing its past has made way for Broussard's competitive spirit that positions its leaders in not only the state, but also the world. The Billeaud Sugar Mill, which supported the community for many years, has now diversified into land acquisitions. The St. Julien families, identified for many generations with agricultural, professional, and political interests, have long-standing ties to the community, as do sports figures such as National League umpire Greg Bonin and two Blanchard siblings who competed in the Junior Olympics.