Editing Rayne, Louisiana (section)

==History==

Rayne is located in Acadia Parish and has a rich history dating back to the late 19th century. The area that would become Rayne was originally part of a large land grant awarded to French settlers in the 18th century. These settlers were primarily involved in agriculture, cultivating crops such as rice and sugarcane.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://acadiatourism.org/history/ | title=History }}</ref>

The establishment of Rayne began in earnest in the 1880s with the arrival of the railroad. The city was initially named Pouppeville,<ref name="auto">{{Cite web| title=Rayne , Louisiana - The Frog Capital of the World | url=https://docs.wixstatic.com/ugd/044cb6_4134bbc6221c4912accfb8671a752ef8.pdf | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210611223117/https://docs.wixstatic.com/ugd/044cb6_4134bbc6221c4912accfb8671a752ef8.pdf | archive-date=2021-06-11}}</ref> after a prominent local figure, but was soon renamed Rayne in honor of Rayne Grey, an engineer for the Southern Pacific Railroad, whose efforts were instrumental in bringing the railroad to the area.<ref>[http://www.sprrhs.org/ Unknown]{{Dead link | date=March 2025 | fix-attempted=yes}}</ref> The railroad not only facilitated transportation and commerce but also attracted a diverse population, contributing to the town's growth and development.<ref name="auto"/>

Rayne's association with frogs began in the early 20th century. Local entrepreneur Jacques Weil noticed the abundance of frogs in the region and started exporting frog legs to New Orleans.<ref name="auto"/> This venture proved successful, and soon Rayne became known for its frog exports, earning its unique moniker. Over time, frogs became an integral part of the city's identity and culture.<ref>{{Cite web | title=History of the Rayne Frog Festival: Celebrating 52 years | url=https://www.klfy.com/local/acadia-parish/history-of-the-rayne-frog-festival-celebrating-52-years/ | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240512023309/https://www.klfy.com/local/acadia-parish/history-of-the-rayne-frog-festival-celebrating-52-years/ | access-date=2025-02-17 | archive-date=2024-05-12}}</ref>

Throughout its history, Rayne has experienced growth and modernization while retaining its small-town charm and distinctive character. The community values its historical roots and continues to celebrate its unique cultural heritage, making Rayne a noteworthy example of Louisiana's rich and diverse history.<ref>{{Cite web | title=Home - acadiatourism.org | url=https://acadiatourism.org/ | access-date=2025-02-17 | website=acadiatourism.org}}</ref>

Today, Rayne remains a vibrant community known for its warm hospitality, cultural festivals, and as a proud emblem of Acadian heritage in the heart of Louisiana.<ref>{{Cite web | title=EXPLORE Louisiana | url=https://www.explorelouisiana.com/ | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040325034313/http://www.explorelouisiana.com:80/ | access-date=2025-02-17 | archive-date=2004-03-25}}</ref>