McDonoghville

McDonoghville

Significance: The marker commemorates the historic community of McDonoghville. Its significance lies in the following:   

• Founding by John McDonogh: McDonoghville was founded in 1815 by John McDonogh, a notable education philanthropist.   
• “Freetown” History: It was also known as “Freetown” because it was where McDonogh’s freed slaves settled.   
• Connection to Jay Gould: The area was also known as Gouldsboro, named for railroad magnate Jay Gould, indicating a later period of influence and development related to the railroad.   
• Incorporation into Gretna: The marker notes that McDonoghville was incorporated into the City of Gretna in 1913, signifying its eventual absorption into the larger municipality.

This marker is significant because it encapsulates the unique history of McDonoghville, highlighting its origins as a settlement for freed slaves under the vision of John McDonogh, its later association with railroad development and Jay Gould, and its eventual integration into the City of Gretna.