Historical Marker
A Civil Rights Haven / 1906 Mill House
Bogalusa, Washington County · Louisiana
In 1965 Bogalusa went from threats to a signed agreement within months. On May 19, remembered as Bloody Wednesday, police and a white mob attacked marchers at Cassidy Park, and a police dog bit Gregory Hicks, son of the man who sheltered organizers nearby. Four days later the mayor signed a desegregation agreement. Trouble continued: in July the federal government invoked a Reconstruction-era law to order local police to protect demonstrators, and the Justice Department sent a mediator while the FBI opened a large investigation.
Where it stands
30.77100, -89.84577 · Directions
More markers nearby
- Robert "Bob" Hicks / Robert "Bob" Hicks Street — steps away
- Robert "Bob" Hicks House — steps away
- A. Z. Young's Home — steps away
- Bogalusa's Birthplace — 1.4 mi