The church was originally built in 1854. If memory serves me correctly, it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It was destroyed by fire in 2010.
The church's website is http://www.freewebs.com/immaculateconceptionchurch/opening.htm
Washington Louisiana was first settled in 1720. Washington is the third oldest settlement in Louisiana. It was first called Poste des Opelousas , later Church’s Landing.
In the 1800’s Washington was the largest steamboat port between New Orleans and St Louis. Bayou Cortableu was an important travel route and the gateway to points to the north and west. Steamboats were as long as 200 feet, and a trip to New Orelans and back took seven days.
In 1883 the railroad came and spelled the end of the steamboat era. Today Washington is a mecca for antique hunters. The old Washington High School has been transformed into a gigantic flea market.