Winnfield, Louisiana
In some ways, visiting the city of Winnfield, Louisiana is like taking a step back in time. Historical homes and buildings abound. Winnfield is rich in stories and folklore of outlaws, bandits, presidents, generals, the Civil War, Indians, railroad men, oil men, and, above all, politicians. In fact, Winnfield is proud to boast that it is the home of three governors: Huey P. Long, Earl K. Long and O.K. Allen, and proudly displays memorabilia of its rich political history in The Old L&A Depot.
But don’t let Winnfield’s historic past fool you – Winnfield is a city on the move with a promising future and many modern conveniences that make it an ideal city for residents, visitors and retirees.
About Mayor Gerald Hamms
Gerald Hamms was sworn in as Mayor of Winnfield on July 1, 2022, with a commitment to reviving the City, economically to be stronger, and a thriving community for all.
Before taking on his role as Mayor, Hamms served two terms as a City councilman representing District 2.
History of Leadership
When people think about Louisiana politics, what comes to mind? Well Winnfield, of course! (And if it doesn’t – it should!) You see, Winnfield is the birthplace of politics in Louisiana for it is the home of three governors – Huey P. Long, Earl K. Long, and Oscar K. Allen.
Huey P. Long, also known as the Kingfish, was born in 1893. He was first elected Railroad Commissioner in 1918. After serving as Governor from 1928 until 1932, he became a United States Senator. Huey Long was actually Governor and Senator at the same time. He is credited as being the originator of the populist movement with the creed “Every Man a King,” also known as his “Share the Wealth” plan. Many feel that he would have challenged Franklin F. Roosevelt for the White House. Huey P. Long was assassinated in 1935 at the state capitol that he is credited with building.
Oscar K. Allen was born in 1882 and elected governor in 1932. “O.K.,” as he was known, loaned Huey P. Long $500 for Long to finance his first political campaign in 1921. Allen served as Chairman of the Louisiana Highway Commission and was elected to the State Senate in 1928. Allen was elected to the United States Senate after the death of Huey P. Long, but died before taking office.
Earl K. Long, Huey’s brother, was born in 1895. He has the distinction of holding more state jobs than any other Louisiana native. “Uncle Earl,” as he was better known, was elected governor in 1939, 1948 and again in 1958. He was elected to the United States Congress in 1960, but died 10 days after his victory.</p
Earl was known for his down-home ways and for his love of hog hunting. The annual Uncle Earl’s Hog Dog Trials are held the forth weekend of March in Winnfield. This is the largest Hog Dog competition in the world.
But don’t let Winnfield’s historic past fool you – Winnfield is a city on the move with a promising future and many modern conveniences that make it an ideal city for residents, visitors and retirees.
Residents enjoy its small town atmosphere, modern conveniences and proximity to large cities and educational institutions. Visitors revel in its many outdoor activities like hiking, hunting, fishing and camping, as well as its tourist attractions and museums. Retirees appreciate its wonderful climate, its many annual festivals, its low cost of living and its state-of-the-art hospitals and care facilities.