The Unique Story Behind a Historic Choice

Published by Louisiana Living and Business

When you look at a map of the United States, there’s one state that stands out with a different kind of boundary label: Louisiana. While every other state is divided into counties, Louisiana is divided into parishes—a total of 64 of them. But why is that?

This isn’t just a quirky naming choice; it’s a deep-rooted reflection of Louisiana’s rich history, cultural diversity, and colonial past. Let’s dive into the story of why Louisiana chose “parishes” and what it says about the state’s identity.

What Is a Parish in Louisiana?

In Louisiana, a parish is the equivalent of a county in other states. It functions as a local government jurisdiction, handling everything from law enforcement to public records, courts, and elections.

The French and Spanish Influence

The origin of Louisiana’s parish system goes back to the colonial era, when Louisiana was under the rule of France and then Spain before becoming part of the United States. Both Catholic nations, France and Spain divided their territories using church parishes, or ecclesiastical districts, aligned with the Catholic Church.

These parishes weren’t just for spiritual guidance—they served as community and administrative centers, deeply influencing how the local population interacted and governed themselves.

The Catholic Church's Role in Early Governance

Because the Catholic Church was so integral to daily life in colonial Louisiana, it shaped not just religion but civil life. Church parishes were often the hubs for recordkeeping, education, conflict resolution, and land distribution.

When Louisiana became part of the United States through the Louisiana Purchase in 1803, these parish boundaries remained familiar and practical to residents. So rather than change the system to match the "county" system used elsewhere, Louisiana chose to keep the structure that already worked.

It Became Official in 1807

The territorial legislature officially adopted the term "parish" in 1807, formalizing what had already been custom for decades. By the time Louisiana became a state in 1812, the parish system was fully in place and remained unique to this day.

A Symbol of Louisiana’s Distinct Identity

Using parishes instead of counties isn’t just a historical quirk—it’s a symbol of Louisiana’s distinct cultural heritage. The state stands apart not only in its legal and political terminology but also in its rich blend of French, Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences, making it one of the most culturally unique places in the U.S.

Fun Fact: Civil Law vs. Common Law

Here’s another interesting twist: Louisiana also follows civil law, based on the Napoleonic Code, rather than common law like the rest of the U.S. This legal system ties closely with the parish structure, emphasizing how deeply Louisiana’s roots differ from its neighboring states.

Why It Still Matters Today

Understanding the history of Louisiana’s parishes helps residents and newcomers appreciate the state’s unusual but rich cultural, legal, and political landscape. It also adds a touch of pride and charm—after all, when you live in a Louisiana parish, you’re not just part of a local government unit; you’re part of a centuries-old tradition.

So, why does Louisiana use parishes instead of counties? The answer lies in its colonial Catholic roots, deep cultural heritage, and historical loyalty to tradition. It’s just one of the many ways Louisiana stands out—and proudly so.