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Gretna, LA

Frequently asked questions

Gretna, LA

Gretna is the second-largest city in, and parish seat of, Jefferson Parish in the U.S. state of Louisiana. Gretna lies on the west bank of the Mississippi River, just east and across the river from uptown New Orleans. It is part of the New Orleans–Metairie–Kenner metropolitan statistical area. The population was 17,814 at the 2020 U.S. census.

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). By 1813, the plantation had passed into the hands of one François Bernoudy. John McDonogh (also spelled John McDonough), then a resident of New Orleans, bought the establishment, moved into the house, and founded a settlement in 1815, that would be named McDonoghville. He subdivided the rest of the former plantation into regular city lots and 30-arpent farming strips. McDonoghville thus became the first subdivision in Jefferson Parish. McDonough either leased or sold these properties to white laborers or free people of color.

Gretna was settled in 1836, originally as Mechanikham, growing with a station on the Mississippi River for the Missouri Pacific Railroad, Texas and Pacific Railway, and Southern Pacific Railroad, with a ferry across the River to New Orleans. The famous food and spice company Zatarain's, founded in 1889 in New Orleans, has been located in Gretna since 1963. Gretna was incorporated in 1913, absorbing the section of McDonogh within the Jefferson Parish boundaries. In the 1940 census, Gretna had a population of 10,879.

Gretna has an elevation of 0 feet (0 m) behind the levee along the Mississippi River. According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 3.9 square miles (10 km²), of which 3.5 sq mi (9.1 km²) is land and 0.4 sq mi (1.0 km²) (9.33%) is water.

Health and wellness are integral aspects of life in Gretna. West Jefferson Medical Center and Ochsner Medical Center offer comprehensive health services, including wellness check-ups and preventive care programs. Gretna actively promotes a healthy lifestyle, and parks like Mel Ott Park provide recreational spaces for outdoor activities, contributing to the overall well-being of the population. Furthermore, the Gretna Senior Center provides social activities, wellness programs, and support services tailored to the needs of older adults, promoting active aging and social connection in the community.  For fitness enthusiasts, West Jefferson Fitness Center provides a comprehensive range of workout options, including group classes and personal training. Planet Fitness offers comprehensive fitness programs including cardio, strength training, and group exercise classes. Blue Heart Yoga and Wellness offers a serene space for yoga practitioners of all levels, promoting both physical and mental well-being. 

The top sites in Gretna, LA: German American Cultural Center, New Orleans Pharmacy Museum, The National WWII Museum

Population: 17, 195 (2022). ZIP Codes: 70053, 70054, 70056. Area code: 504. Elevation: 0 ft (m). Founded: 1836.  Area: 4.50 sq mi (11.64 km²).

FAQs

What is Gretna, LA is known for?

As one of Louisiana's largest national historic register districts, Gretna is steeped in history and intrigue. Stroll through Gretna's downtown historic district and discover the unique architecture and landmarks. Gretna was composed of three settlements in the early 1800s: McDonoghville founded by John McDonogh in 1815, Mechanickham founded by Nicholas Noel Destrehan in 1836, and Gretna developed by the St. Mary's Market Steam Ferry Company in 1838. 

What are the demographics of Gretna LA?

Gretna is a city located in Jefferson Parish Louisiana. Gretna has a 2024 population of 16,627. Gretna is currently declining at a rate of -1.68% annually and its population has decreased by -6.4% since the most recent census, which recorded a population of 17,763 in 2020. According to the most recent ACS, the racial composition of Gretna was: White: 46.45% Black or African American: 29.83% Two or more races: 12.48%.  This demographic mosaic reflects the richness of cultural backgrounds and experiences within Geismar, highlighting the importance of embracing diversity and promoting inclusivity in the community. By fostering understanding and appreciation for different racial and ethnic identities, Geismar can strive towards creating a more cohesive and equitable society for all its residents.

What county is Gretna, LA in?

Gretna is the second-largest city in, and parish seat of, Jefferson Parish in the U.S. state of Louisiana. Gretna lies on the west bank of the Mississippi River, just east and across the river from uptown New Orleans. It is part of the New Orleans–Metairie–Kenner metropolitan statistical area. The population was 17,814 at the 2020 U.S. census.

Sources

City of Gretna

Jefferson Parish

World Population Review

German American Cultural Center

New Orleans Pharmacy Museum

The National WWII Museum

West Jefferson Medical Center

Ochsner Medical Center

Mel Ott Park

Gretna Senior Center

West Jefferson Fitness Center

Planet Fitness

Blue Heart Yoga and Wellness

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