Louisiana Hurricanes

The Last Island hurricane was first observed on August 8, 1856, when it had already reached hurricane-force winds. It continued to strengthen until making landfall near New Iberia, Louisiana on August 10. While on this track, the eye of the storm passed directly over the barrier island of Last Island (known officially as Isle Dernière). The storm devastated Isle Dernière, splitting it in two, and killing at least 198 people. The storm continued northwards, leaving behind heavy rains and additional damage across southern Louisiana, and dissipated by August 12.

Listed below are some recommended subject headings for searching for the 1856 Last Island hurricane. Full steps on how to use these subject terms can be found on this LibGuide's homepage.

Hurricanes.
Hurricanes -- Gulf States.
Hurricanes -- Louisiana.
Hurricanes -- Louisiana -- Isles Dernieres.
Isles Dernieres (La.) -- History -- 19th century.
Last Island (La.) -- Storm.
Louisiana -- Hurricanes.

A few of the collections held by LSU Libraries Special Collections are listed below. Additional collections may be found utilizing the subject headings listed in the sections above. 

Books and other published materials

Manuscript collections

Additional resources on the Last Island hurricane of 1856 may be located at the following links.

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