The 1930s were hard times for most people. The Great Depression forced millions of Americans out of work, out of their homes and into soup lines.

Here in Louisiana, Huey P. Long was governor, (and later senator) and his eyes were fixed on the White House. Apparently, there was no lukewarm feeling for Huey. With his charismatic campaign and “chicken in every pot” speeches, you either loved him or hated him. My family fell into the latter category. In fact, my grandmother, who taught school in St. Helena Parish for many years, was fired from her first teaching job because her father refused to swear allegiance to the Long political machine. Luckily, they didn’t need one of Huey’s chickens.

In 1935, the same year Long was assassinated, his arch-enemy President Roosevelt introduced the Works Progress Administration to put citizens back to work. The WPA was responsible for the construction of countless roads and public buildings throughout the United States. The St. Helena Parish Courthouse, dedicated in 1938, is just such a structure. The design and architectural details render it a classic example of the late Art Deco period and many of the same sleek lines and geometric patterns can also be found in Huey’s great monument to himself, the State Capitol building in Baton Rouge.

Next time you’re in Greensburg, stop and have a look. Go inside. Run your fingers over one of the elaborate brass doorknobs polished by 70 years of St. Helena hands. And tip your hat to FDR (just don’t let Huey see you.)

1 December 2004 : posted 26 August 2016