Five Years Later: The Storm that took the Roof
- Sharon Spell
- Aug 29
- 2 min read
Hurricane Ida's damage revisited
Five years ago, Hurricane Ida brought devastation to the Caire Stores and to the community of Edgard.
While there was no officially confirmed tornado, powerful winds associated with the storm caused the 170+ year-old roof of the brick store to be ripped completely away — sending it cartwheeling across the adjacent property.
The damage was significant, including to the Sidney and Annette Caire home next door, where Caire descendant Joanny Benoit and her husband, Stan, lived through the storm and experienced its aftermath firsthand.
The newer wood store had minor roof damage which was repaired soon after. See the latest blog for renovation progress: Construction Progress Update!
The older brick store was thankfully left standing — but without a roof.
Brick Store damage and roof loss due to Hurricane Ida 2021
At the time, Warren Caire owned the property, and sadly, the storm came as his health was declining. Changes in ownership and a variety of other circumstances contributed to the building remaining roofless in the years that followed.
Even so, the story doesn't end there.
Progress has been made in salvaging and preserving the contents of the brick store, including the many pieces of history that remained inside. And now, after five years exposed to the elements, plans are finally underway to repair the historic brickwork and replace the roof.
Even so, the story doesn’t end there.
It’s another important step in bringing the Caire Stores back to life.
After more than 170 years, this old building has weathered a lot. We’re looking forward to seeing it protected once again — and ready for its next chapter.
Interior damage to Brick Store
Section of Roof laying in the adjacent lane and driveway.
We have an opportunity to protect what remains and preserve the Caire Stores for the generations who will come after us.
Our Raise the Roof campaign will help fund the repair of the historic brickwork and installation of a new roof — an essential step in safeguarding this remarkable piece of Louisiana history.
We invite you to become part of its Preservation. Every contribution helps protect the building, the stories, and the memories that make the Caire Stores an important part of Edgard’s history.
Let’s Raise the Roof — and preserve the story — for generations to come!
Keep up to date with ongoing renovations to the Caire Stores and learn how you can help by visiting www.cairestores.com and subscribing to our newsletter, as well as following us on Facebook and Instagram.
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