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Hammond, LA

Hammond is the largest city in Tangipahoa Parish, Louisiana, United States, located 45 miles (72 km) east of Baton Rouge and 45 miles (72 km) northwest of New Orleans. Its population was 20,019 in the 2010 U.S. census, and 21,359 at the 2020 population estimates program.

Hammond is home to Southeastern Louisiana University. It is the principal city of the Hammond metropolitan statistical area, which includes all of Tangipahoa Parish and is a part of the New Orleans-Metairie-Hammond combined statistical area.

The city is named for Peter Hammond (1798–1870), the surname anglicized from Peter av Hammerdal (Peter of Hammerdal) — a Swedish immigrant known as the first European settler, arriving around 1818. Peter, a sailor, had been briefly imprisoned by the British at Dartmoor Prison during the Napoleonic Wars. He escaped during a prison riot, made his way back to sea, and later reached New Orleans.

Hammond used his savings to buy then-inexpensive land northwest of Lake Pontchartrain. He developed a plantation to cultivate trees, which he made into masts, charcoal, and other products for the maritime industry in New Orleans. He transported the goods by oxcart to the head of navigation on the Natalbany River at Springfield. He held at least 30 enslaved African Americans before the Civil War. Hammond lost his wealth during the war, as Union soldiers raided his property.

In 1854, the New Orleans, Jackson and Great Northern Railroad (later the Illinois Central Railroad, now Canadian National Railway) came through the area, launching the town's emergence as a commercial and transport center. The point where the railroad met the trail to Springfield was at first known as Hammond's Crossing.

During the Civil War, the city was a shoe-making center for the Confederate States Army. Charles Emery Cate developed the shoe industry after buying land in the city in 1860 for his home, a shoe factory, a tannery, and a sawmill. Toward the end of the war, Cate laid out the town's grid, using the rail line as a guide and naming several of the streets after his sons. Also, Cate Street is named for him.

After the Civil War, light industry and commercial activities were attracted to the town. By the end of the 19th century, Hammond had become a stopping point for northern rail passengers traveling south and for New Orleanians heading north to escape seasonal summer yellow fever outbreaks. The city later became a shipping point for strawberries. A state historical plaque downtown marks it as "Strawberry Capital of America".

Hammond is located at 30°30′16″N 90°27′56″W (30.504446, -90.465616) and has an elevation of 43 feet (13.1 m). According to the United States Census Bureau, the city has a total area of 12.8 square miles (33 km²), of which 12.8 square miles (33 km²) is land and 0.08% is water.

In addition to its economic strengths, Hammond places a significant emphasis on health and wellness. North Oaks Medical Center offers comprehensive health services, including wellness check-ups and preventive care programs. The city also boasts several parks and recreational areas that contribute to residents' well-being. Notable locations include Zemurray Park, offering opportunities for outdoor activities and relaxation. For fitness enthusiasts, CrossFit provides a high-intensity workout environment designed to improve strength and conditioning. Planet Fitness offers comprehensive fitness programs including cardio, strength training, and group exercise classes. The Chappapeela Sports Park offers a variety of recreational amenities, including sports fields, walking trails, and playgrounds, providing opportunities for physical activity and outdoor leisure for individuals and families. North Cypress Fitness Center stands out with comprehensive fitness programs and state-of-the-art facilities. Moreover, the Hammond Recreation Center offers a range of recreational activities and programs for all ages, including sports leagues, fitness classes, and community events, fostering social connections and active living. The Hammond Community Pool provides swimming lessons, aquatic fitness classes, and recreational swimming opportunities, promoting water safety and physical activity for individuals of all ages. 

The top sites in Hammond, LA are Kliebert & Son’s Gator Tours, Louisiana Children's Discovery Center, Cate Square Park.

Population: 19,584 (2020). ZIP Codes: 70401, 70403. Area code: 985. Elevation: 43 ft (13 m). Area: 14.25 sq mi (36.92 km²).

FAQs

Is Hammond, LA a good place to live?

Hammond is in Tangipahoa Parish. Living in Hammond offers residents a sparse suburban feel and most residents rent their homes. Many young professionals live in Hammond and residents tend to lean liberal.

What is Hammond, LA is known for?

The city is known for its delicious strawberries which begin to be available in January of each year. The area has become a center for growing, processing, and shipping strawberries nationwide. In addition, the city has maintained and preserved a large historic district in the downtown area. It is also an antique haven, and visitors come from far and wide to shop at Ponchatoula's antique stores.

What is the area median income in Hammond, LA?

The largest Hammond racial/ethnic groups are White (48.5%) followed by Black (44.3%) and Hispanic (3.5%). In 2022, the median household income of Hammond households was $42,049. Hammond households made slightly more than Harvey households ($41,994) and Maringouin households ($41,875). However, 28.4% of Hammond families live in poverty.

Sources

Wikipedia

City of Hammond

World Population Review

Louisiana Demographics

Louisiana Destinations

Kliebert & Son’s Gator Tours,

Louisiana Children's Discovery Center

Cate Square Park

North Oaks Medical Center

Zemurray Park,

CrossFit

Planet Fitness

Chappapeela Sports Park

North Cypress Fitness Center

Hammond Recreation Center

Hammond Community Pool

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