The invention of the steam-powered mill in the early 19th century revolutionized sugar production. The technology increased the yield of sugar by speeding up the grinding process, which in turn reduced the chances of spoilage in the cane, further increasing the yield. The first steam-powered mill in the area was built in St. Bernard in 1822.
In 1825 two new varieties of cane, now called Louisiana Purple and Louisiana Striped, provided a crop that was even more resistant to the cooler temperatures of Louisiana. These technologies greatly improved crop yields in St. Bernard Parish and other areas.