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According to the history published by the city, Gretna's history can be traced to a plantation established by Jean-Charles de Pradel by 1750 (when the plantation house, Monplaisir, was built). [a] By 1813, the plantation had passed into the hands of one François Bernoudy.
Much of Gretna’s historic architecture reflects the shotgun homes and Creole cottages of New Orleans, its neighbor just across the Mississippi River. A more laid back, small-town feel has always set Gretna apart. Beginning in the 19th century, an agreeable marrying judge made the area a destination for couples seeking quickie weddings.
Old Gretna (Mechanikham-Gretna Historic District) Mechanikham was established in 1836 when wealthy landowner, Nicholas Noel Destrehan, hired surveyor Benjamin Buisson to divide his long and narrow swath of land on the river into lots.
One facet of Louisiana that makes it such an appealing visitor destination is its deep and colorful history. European explorers found their way to the region and inhabited the area very early relative to settlement of much of the rest of the continent.
Stroll through one of Louisiana's largest national historic register districts, Gretna's downtown historic district, and discover the unique architecture and landmarks. Settled by German immigrants in 1836, Gretna is steeped in history and intrigue.
Gretna is the second-largest city in and parish seat of Jefferson Parish, Louisiana. It lies on the west bank of the Mississippi River, just east and across the river from uptown New Orleans. Founded in the early 1800s as Mechanicsham by Nicholas Noel Destréhan, a plantation owner, it was settled by immigrants of German descent.
The Gretna Historical Society was founded in Gretna, Louisiana, in 1969. The GHS operates the Gretna Historical Society Museum Complex on Lafayette Street. It consists of three 19th century Creole cottages, a blacksmith shop, and the Louisiana Fire Museum.
