Morgan City began on the site of the Tiger Island Sugar Plantation owned by Dr. Walter Brashear, a prominent surgeon from Kentucky. It was incorporated in 1860 as Brashear City, then renamed Morgan City in February 1876, in honor of Charles Morgan, New York magnate who made Brashear City the center on many of his steamship and railroad activities. During the Civil War, it became important as the western most supplyline of the Union Army since it was the terminal of the New Orleans, Opelousas and Great Western Railroad. It was from here that the Union Army made its Teche Campaign. Since World War II,Morgan City has grown rapidly. The present day growth started with the beginning of the offshore oil exploration and drilling in 1947. Kerr McGee's Rig 16 became the first producer of oil in the open Gulf. In 1972, a historical maker was emplaced commemorating this event.Brownell Carillon Tower - In a beautiful setting by Lake Palourde. The 9.5 acre park shows the many varied plants that grow wild along the ridges of these swamps - palmettos, elephant ears, ferns, etc... The 106 ft. tower contains 61 bronze bells cast in Holland. On Hwy. 70, open to the public 9-4, Thursday - Sunday, except for major holidays.
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