St. Martinville, LA, is one of the oldest towns in Louisiana and serves as the parish seat of St. Martin Parish, with a population of approximately 5,300 residents. The area was originally inhabited by the Attakapas people before becoming a French settlement in the mid-1700s known as Poste des Attakapas. In 1765, Acadian exiles expelled from Nova Scotia arrived, bringing the French language, Catholic faith, and cultural traditions that continue to define the town. St. Martin de Tours Catholic Church, founded by those early settlers and completed in its current form in 1840, became the community’s anchor. During the early nineteenth century, St. Martinville developed a reputation for cultural life and education, earning the nickname “Le Petit Paris.”
The town’s historical presence is visible throughout daily life. St. Martin de Tours Catholic Church anchors the downtown area and has served the community since the early 1800s, remaining an active place of worship and a focal point for local gatherings. Nearby, the Evangeline Oak stands as one of the most recognizable landmarks in Cajun Country, tied to Longfellow’s poem and long-standing Acadian folklore.
Cuisine here reflects the area’s Cajun roots and regional cooking traditions. St. John Restaurant remains a local staple, known for dishes such as crawfish étouffée, shrimp and grits, and seasonal seafood dishes that reflect local ingredients. Clambeaugh’s adds a different kind of draw, operating as a casual local stop known for plate lunches, sandwiches, and daily specials that cater to regulars rather than visitors passing through.
Local businesses are thriving. C’est Jolie Flowers operates as a full-service floral shop, creating arrangements for events, memorials, holidays, and daily occasions. Joyce’s Home & Farm Supply serves farmers, homeowners, and property owners with feed, seed, fencing, tools, and outdoor supplies, supporting both agricultural routines and property upkeep across the area.
Outdoor activity often centers around Bayou Teche. The Bayou Teche National Water Trail brings paddlers, anglers, and walkers into the area, while the Bayou Teche Experience facility supports educational programming, boat access, and guided outings. Rip Van Winkle Gardens provides another outdoor draw, offering walking paths, landscaped gardens, and views of the lake that attract visitors throughout the year without overwhelming the town’s pace.
Community events tend to reflect tradition and shared history. The St. Martinville Pepper Festival brings food vendors, live music, and cooking competitions to the area each year. Cultural celebrations tied to Acadian heritage, religious holidays, and parish gatherings continue to shape the local calendar, often centered around downtown spaces and church grounds.
The Longfellow-Evangeline State Historic Site remains one of the most significant cultural landmarks connected to the Acadian story. The site preserves a restored nineteenth-century plantation home, outbuildings, and landscaped grounds that reflect life along Bayou Teche during the period when Acadian and Creole cultures took root. Walking paths wind through oak-shaded areas and along the water, while interpretive displays focus on the history behind Longfellow’s Evangeline and the real experiences of Acadian families who settled the region.
When understanding your property’s condition, a thorough inspection becomes essential. Sherlock Home Inspection Service provides professional home inspections in Saint Martinville, LA, helping buyers, sellers, and property owners gain clear insight into structural components, systems, and potential concerns. Don't hesitate to contact us today to schedule an inspection for your property before hidden issues can cause serious damage.