Barataria Bay

Barataria Bay lies among the marshes, bayous and barrier islands west of the Mississippi delta. Its channels lead from the Gulf of Mexico into a sheltered watery landscape south of New Orleans. By the early nineteenth century the bay and its islands had become known as a base for smugglers and privateers.

Jean and Pierre Lafitte were associated with the Baratarians, whose vessels and trade operated among the islands near the bay’s entrance. In 1814 an American expedition attacked their base at Grand Terre. Later, during the campaign for New Orleans, some Baratarians served with the American defenders, bringing their knowledge of ships, guns and the coast. The intricate coast that had sheltered their commerce also lay close to the approaches to the city.