The region surrounding New Iberia is the home of the Acadians, from Nova Scotia, a picturesque and rich agricultural country. Within a few miles are Avery, Jefferson and Weeks Islands, all of which have great salt mines. On Jefferson Island was the former home (Bob Acres) of Joseph Jefferson, and on Avery there is a large bird refuge. This entire region is a succession of undulating plains and winding streams. Sugar, cottonseed oil, lumber and salt are the leading products of its manufacturing industries. The city of Lafayette was founded in 1S23 by the Acadians of Nova Scotia and incorporated in the same year.