29° 57’ 47.292” N, 91° 12’ 41.790” W
Located near the Atchafalaya Basin, Pierre Part, Louisiana, is located at Pierre Part Bay. It is only three feet above sea level. It is also nearly surrounded by water. During the 1800s, it was actually nearly destroyed by a flood.
But one thing survived. The St. Joseph the Worker Catholic Church sits on a small island. Within the ruins of this church, a statue of the Virgin Mary was found without any damage.
According to reports, in 1902, Father Pillian, a local priest, placed a small statue in a wooden cross on the island. He asked the Virgin Mary to protect the town. The local belief is that if water doesn’t reach the Virgin’s feet, Pierre Part will survive.
Later, the small statue was replaced by a larger one. Worshippers still come to the island to pray.
Historical Marker Inscription
Commemorates The Blessed Virgin who the people of Pierre Part believe intervened to save lives in natural disasters from 1882-1976. Restored by the citizens during the Bicentennial Year 1976.
Location
3302 LA-70, Pierre Part, LA 70339, United States
Historical Markers of the World 