Before the vibrant community of Slidell stretched its limbs across the landscape, there nestled a spirited settlement named Bonfouca. Our cultural cradle, this 18th-century hamlet, sowed the seeds of heritage for many Creole families. The heartbeat of our lineage, a historic edifice, stands testament to times past—an ancestral nexus, if you will—erected by none other than Joseph Creole Laurent. Yes, that’s how he chose to ink his name!
Descendants weaving through Joseph’s family tree have bloomed into families far and wide, surnames like Laurent, Carriere, Pichon, Faciane, Galatas, Dubuisson, and Trepangier dot our communal branches. These names, rich in history and drenched in tradition, form the tapestry of our collective memory.
The essence of Bonfouca was distilled from a close-knit concoction of French settlers, Black slaves striving toward freedom, the resilient Spanish, and the indigenous wisdom of Native Americans. They were artisans in their own right, master brickmakers who baked kilns as sturdy as their spirit, skillful builders of robust schooners, purveyors of tar and creosote, harvesters of lumber, and guardians of Native American crafts. Their hands shaped more than tools and timber; they carved the very culture of this region, leaving an indelible mark on New Orleans and beyond.
At the heart of this community lies a vibrant blend of traditions and tales, each one weaving a unique strand into local history. These stories, brimming with resilience and creativity, honor the diverse contributions of our ancestors. Yet, there’s a fear they may fade with time. United, we’re committed to preserving and sharing these narratives, ensuring the legacy of our forebears endures with pride and vigor.
Interesting that the “Maestri Bridge” crosses the lake into the foot of “Bonfouca”, the camps were or at least North Shore Beach, this is the epicenter of the Maestri-Dale families.
Our cousins right across Highway 11 and we never knew… Would not surprise me if the lots on Carr Drive came from the Galatas side of the family.