Louisiana Anthology Podcast

574. We talk to Lynette Mejia about her defense of the Lafayette Library system. Louisiana born and raised, Lynette has become one of the faces of the anti-censorship movement in Lafayette, co-founding Lafayette Citizens Against Censorship and Louisiana Citizens Against Censorship. "The board," Mejia said, "has a very specific far-right Christian nationalist worldview and seems bent on imposing it on the library and changing its programming and collections to fit that world view." Now available: Liberty in Louisiana: A Comedy. The oldest play about Louisiana, author James Workman wrote it as a celebration of the Louisiana Purchase. Now it is back in print for the first time in 220 years. Order your copy today! This week in Louisiana history. May 18 1896. LA. case of Plessy v. Ferguson, "seperate but equal" This week in New Orleans history. On May 18, 1959, the song "Battle of New Orleans" by Johnny Horton became the number-one country single. This week in Louisiana. Mudbug Madness May 24-26, 2024 101 Crockett Street Shreveport, LA 71101 Phone: (318) 226-5641 Website. What began in 1984 as a two-day street festival in downtown Shreveport is now one of Louisiana's largest and most popular Cajun festivals, featuring country, pop, blues, and the very best in zydeco music.     Three Days     Two Stages     Thirty Bands     Food & Art/Craft Vendors     Kids On The Bayou Children's Area     Crawfish Eating Contests     Plenty Of Boiled Crawfish & Cold Beverages A three-day festival held each Memorial Day weekend, Mudbug Madness is nationally recognized as one of the Southeast Tourism Society's Top 20 Events and the American Bus Association's Top 100 Events in the nation. Postcards from Louisiana. Drums in Congo Square on Easter Sunday, 2024.  Listen on Apple Podcasts. Listen on audible. Listen on Spotify. Listen on TuneIn. Listen on iHeartRadio. The Louisiana Anthology Home Page. Like us on Facebook. 

574. We talk to Lynette Mejia about her defense of the Lafayette Library system. Louisiana born and raised, Lynette has become one of the faces of the anti-censorship movement in Lafayette, co-founding Lafayette Citizens Against Censorship and Louisiana Citizens Against Censorship. "The board," Mejia said, "has a very specific far-right Christian nationalist worldview and seems bent on imposing it on the library and changing its programming and collections to fit that world view." Now available: Liberty in Louisiana: A Comedy. The oldest play about Louisiana, author James Workman wrote it as a celebration of the Louisiana Purchase. Now it is back in print for the first time in 220 years. Order your copy today! This week in Louisiana history. May 18 1896. LA. case of Plessy v. Ferguson, "seperate but equal" This week in New Orleans history. On May 18, 1959, the song "Battle of New Orleans" by Johnny Horton became the number-one country single. This week in Louisiana. Mudbug Madness May 24-26, 2024 101 Crockett Street Shreveport, LA 71101 Phone: (318) 226-5641 Website. What began in 1984 as a two-day street festival in downtown Shreveport is now one of Louisiana's largest and most popular Cajun festivals, featuring country, pop, blues, and the very best in zydeco music.     Three Days     Two Stages     Thirty Bands     Food & Art/Craft Vendors     Kids On The Bayou Children's Area     Crawfish Eating Contests     Plenty Of Boiled Crawfish & Cold Beverages A three-day festival held each Memorial Day weekend, Mudbug Madness is nationally recognized as one of the Southeast Tourism Society's Top 20 Events and the American Bus Association's Top 100 Events in the nation. Postcards from Louisiana. Drums in Congo Square on Easter Sunday, 2024.  Listen on Apple Podcasts. Listen on audible. Listen on Spotify. Listen on TuneIn. Listen on iHeartRadio. The Louisiana Anthology Home Page. Like us on Facebook. 

573. Today, Robert Caldwell returns to discuss the history of the Choctaw Tribe. He has written a recent article on the subject: “Choctaw Frontier: Incursions and settlement in Northwest Louisiana and East Texas, 1760-1836,” North Louisiana History Fall 2020. Robert is a Visiting Assistant Professor of American Studies at Brown University and Native American and Indigenous Studies at Hampshire College. Robert  is an enrolled citizen of the Choctaw-Apache Community of Ebarb Louisiana. His first book, Choctaw-Apache Foodways received an award from the Louisiana Folklife Commission, and he was named culture bearer. He is co-founder of the HoMinti Society, a nonprofit organization dedicated to teaching his tribe’s traditional culture. He enjoys playing Kabutcha Toli (southeastern stickball) and is honored to be a guest in Haudenosaunee lands. Now available: Liberty in Louisiana: A Comedy. The oldest play about Louisiana, author James Workman wrote it as a celebration of the Louisiana Purchase. Now it is back in print for the first time in 220 years. Order your copy today! This week in Louisiana history. May 11 1885 Birthday of famous trumpet player Joe King Oliver, Known for his use of mutes in jazz, as well as for his compositions, like "Doctor Jazz." This week in New Orleans history. On May 11, 1988 a fire destroyed the third floor of the Cabildo, one of the principal buildings of the Louisiana State Museum. In the following years, the architects of the New Orleans firm Koch and Wilson, along with construction crews, labored over this national historic landmark's restoration. This week in Louisiana. Mid-City Bayou Boogaloo 500 N Jefferson Davis Pkw New Orleans, LA 70118 May 17 - 19, 2024 Music by Afroman Nik West  Website  Postcards from Louisiana. Holiday Soul plays at the Apple Barrel. Listen on Apple Podcasts. Listen on audible. Listen on Spotify. Listen on TuneIn. Listen on iHeartRadio. The Louisiana Anthology Home Page. Like us on Facebook. 

572. We welcome comedian and oroducer Gloria McConnell to the podcast. Gloria has been in business since 2019 performing standup comedy and producing Mid City Live! comedy variety show across southeast Louisiana. She has opened for national touring comedians, Sean Patton, Caitlin Peluffo, and Susan Saiger." (Black Dress Productions). Now available: Liberty in Louisiana: A Comedy. The oldest play about Louisiana, author James Workman wrote it as a celebration of the Louisiana Purchase. Now it is back in print for the first time in 220 years. Order your copy today!  This week in Louisiana history. May 4 1970 T.H. Williams wins Pulitzer Prize for his biography, Huey Long. This week in New Orleans history. Edward William Alton Ochsner, surgeon, academic was born in Kimball, S. D., on May 4, 1896. He got his medical education as a surgical resident, Augustana Hospital, Chicago, Ill., 1921-1922; exchange surgical resident, University of Zurich, 1922-1923; exchange surgical resident, University of Frankfurt, 1923-1924. Professor of Surgery, Tulane University, 1927-1961. One of the first to identify cigarette smoking as a cause of lung cancer and heart disease. One of founders and director of surgery (1942-1966) of Ochsner Clinic and Ochsner Foundation Hospital; president, Alton Ochsner Medical Foundation, 1944-1970. Retired from surgery after more than 20,000 operations. Published six books, twenty-four sections of books, and more than five hundred articles. Taught more than 3,000 students, including Texas heart surgeon Michael DeBakey. States-Item Man of the Century in Medicine, 1977. Died, New Orleans, September 24, 1981. This week in Louisiana. Greek Fest New Orleans. May 24, 2024 - May 26, 2024 Hours 5-11 pm Friday 11 am -11 pm Saturday 11 am - 8 pm Sunday Location: Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral 1200 Robert E. Lee Blvd. New Orleans, LA 70122 [Map/Directions] Admission Price: $10 (children under 12 free) More Info: Event Website  Postcards from Louisiana. Bruce listens to the drums in Congo Square on Easter Sunday, 2024. Listen on Apple Podcasts. Listen on audible. Listen on Spotify. Listen on TuneIn. Listen on iHeartRadio. The Louisiana Anthology Home Page. Like us on Facebook. 

571.  This week we talk to Hans Rasmussen about the book he edited, A Girl’s Life in New Orleans: The Diary of Ella Grunewald, 1884–1886. “A Girl’s Life in New Orleans presents the diary of Ella Grunewald, an upper-middle-class teenager in New Orleans at the end of the nineteenth century. Grunewald, the daughter of one of the Crescent City’s leading music dealers, used her journal to record the major events of her day-to-day life, documenting family, friendships, schooling, musical education, and social activities. Her entries frequently describe illness, death, and other tragedies. Though attentive to the city’s classical music scene, Grunewald also recounts theater shows, Carnival balls and parades, Catholic religious observances, and the World’s Fair that the city hosted in 1884.” Hans Rasmussen is head of Special Collections Technical Services at LSU Libraries in Baton Rouge. Now available: Liberty in Louisiana: A Comedy. The oldest play about Louisiana, author James Workman wrote it as a celebration of the Louisiana Purchase. Now it is back in print for the first time in 220 years. Order your copy today! This week in Louisiana history. April 27, 1874. The White League (a paramilitary organization; its members wore no masks) organized to combat the Kellogg racial policies. This week in New Orleans history. The Illinois Central Railroad introduced the original City of New Orleans on April 27, 1947 as a daytime companion to the overnight Panama Limited. EMD E7 diesel locomotives pulled new lightweight Pullman Company coaches. The 921-mile route, which the City of New Orleans covered in 15 hours 55 minutes, was the longest daytime schedule in the United States. This week in Louisiana. 2nd Annual Lincoln Literarium Saturday, May 4, 2024 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm 910 N Trenton St. Ruston, LA Website  Contact Jeremy Bolom. jbolom@mylpl.org Join Bruce and Stephen, as well as other local authors, at the Lincoln Parish library. This will be our first event with our new book, Liberty in Louisiana. Head to the Linocln Parish Library for the 2nd Annual Lincoln Literarium event. Enjoy author signings along with book readings. If you are an author who is interested in participating, you can contact Jeremy Bolom at jbolom@mylpl.org. Postcards from Louisiana. dba Palmetta Bug Stompers.   Listen on Apple Podcasts. Listen on audible. Listen on Spotify. Listen on TuneIn. Listen on iHeartRadio. The Louisiana Anthology Home Page. Like us on Facebook.

570. This week we talk to musician Jackson Skillingstad. Hailing from the heart of Ruston, Louisiana, Jackson Skillingstad is a genre-defying singer/songwriter whose music blends the soulful essence of deep South roots with a fusion of rock, country, and hip hop vibes. It's a musical gumbo that mirrors the eclectic sounds of Louisiana, creating a unique experience that feels like a mosh pit of emotions. Influenced by legends like Elvis Presley, modern hip-hop icon Kevin Gates, and contemporary sensation Post Malone, Jackson Skillingstad brings a fresh perspective to the music scene. With a voice that resonates deep within the soul and lyrics that tell tales of life's twists and turns, Jackson Skillingstad invites you to join the journey through the diverse landscapes of their musical universe.Prepare to be captivated by the rhythmic concoction that is Jackson Skillingstad's music – a testament to the rich musical heritage of Louisiana, delivered with a contemporary flair that breaks down genre barriers. Step into the sonic world of Jackson Skillingstad, where every note tells a story, and every beat creates a rhythm that stays with you long after the music fades. This week in Louisiana history. April 21, 1804. Gov. Laussat, last French Gov., leaves Louisiana. This week in New Orleans history. Robert Tallant. Born in New Orleans on April 20, 1909. Robert Tallant was educated in local public schools. He worked as an advertising copywriter, bank teller, and clerk before "drifting" into writing. His friendship with Lyle Saxon led to a position as editor on the Louisiana Writers' Project of the WPA. In this position he completed the writing of “Gumbo Ya-Ya: A Collection of Louisiana Folk Tales,” the Project's compilation of Louisiana folklore. By 1948 his career was fully launched and over the next eleven years he produced eight novels and six full-length works of nonfiction, including three for Random House. This week in Louisiana. April 24 Swing in the Oaks The Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra performs a program of classics and popular music at the free concert at the Great Lawn and Peristyle in New Orleans City Park. Visit lpomusic.com.  for details. Postcards from Louisiana. Easter Sunday in Congo Square. Listen on Apple Podcasts. Listen on audible. Listen on Spotify. Listen on TuneIn. Listen on iHeartRadio. The Louisiana Anthology Home Page. Like us on Facebook. 

569. We welcome Jeroen Dewulf back to the podcast to discuss his new book, Afro-Atlantic Catholics: America’s First Black Christians. "This volume examines the influence of African Catholics on the historical development of Black Christianity in America during the seventeenth century. Dewulf’s analysis focuses on the historical documentation of Afro-Atlantic Catholic rituals, devotions, and social structures. Of particular importance are brotherhood practices, which were critical in the dissemination of Afro-Atlantic Catholic culture among Black communities, a culture that was pre-Tridentine in nature and wary of external influences. These fraternal Black mutual-aid and burial society structures were critically important to the development and resilience of Black Christianity in America through periods of changing social conditions." "Jeroen Dewulf (born 1972 in Nieuwpoort, Belgium) is a Belgian scholar specializing in Dutch culture, the Dutch language, German Studies, slavery and African-American culture, Caribbean Studies, and Latin American Studies. He is a professor at the University of California, Berkeley." This week in Louisiana history. April 13, 1803. Barbé-Marbois meets with Livingston to offer La. for 100 Million ₣ francs. This week in New Orleans history. Born in New Orleans on April 13, 1926, Cosimo Matassa is the recording engineer and studio owner responsible for nationally renowned R&B and rock and roll recordings at his New Orleans studios. He said that his formula for success was not complicated in any way..."Do it live or do it over again until it was done right".  He did it right for hundreds of young unknown musicians including Ray Charles, Fats Domino, Dr. John, Mickey Gilly and many more from 1945 through 1968. J&M recorded Alan Toussaint's first record, "The Wild Side of New Orleans" which was released by RCA Victor.  He recorded Aaron Neville's "Tell it Like it Is", Robert Parker's "Barefootin'", and Little Richard's "Tutti Frutti" in 1956 -- a recording which has been acclaimed as a seminal Rock and Roll song. This week in Louisiana. NEW ORLEANS JAZZ & HERITAGE FESTIVAL (Website) April 25, 2024 - May 5, 2024 Recurring weekly on Sunday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday LOCATION: Fair Grounds Race Course and Slots, A Churchill Downs Co. 1751 Gentilly Blvd. New Orleans, LA 70119 ADMISSION PRICE: Prices vary MORE INFO: (504) 410-4100 Visit Event Website Postcards from Louisiana. Lundi Gras on Paydras St. Listen on Apple Podcasts. Listen on audible. Listen on Spotify. Listen on TuneIn. Listen on iHeartRadio. The Louisiana Anthology Home Page. Like us on Facebook. 

568. We welcome author Lisa Wingate to the podcast to discuss her novel, Book of Lost Friends. “From the bestselling author of Before We Were Yours comes a dramatic historical novel of three young women searching for family amid the destruction of the post–Civil War South, and of a modern-day teacher who learns of their story and its vital connection to her students’ lives” (NYT). "Louisiana, 1875: In the tumultuous era of Reconstruction, three young women set off as unwilling companions on a perilous quest: Hannie, a freed slave; Lavinia, the pampered heir to a now destitute plantation; and Juneau Jane, Lavinia’s Creole half sister. Each carries private wounds and powerful secrets as they head for Texas, following roads rife with vigilantes and soldiers still fighting a war lost a decade before. For Lavinia and Juneau Jane, the journey is one of stolen inheritance and financial desperation, but for Hannie, torn from her mother and siblings before slavery’s end, the pilgrimage west reignites an agonizing question: Could her long-lost family still be out there? Beyond the swamps lie the limitless frontiers of Texas and, improbably, hope" (Wingate). This week in Louisiana history. April 6 1764 First Acadians actually arrived in Louisiana. This week in New Orleans history. On April 6, 1893, Andy Bowen and Jack Burke fought 110 rounds to a draw in New Orleans in the longest prizefight in history. The fight lasted seven hours, 19 minutes. This week in Louisiana. Books Along The Teche Literary Festival March 31, 2023 — April 07, 2024. https://booksalongthetecheliteraryfestival.com Various venues will celebrate literature and its impact on the area's culture with storytelling, workshops, readers theatre, music, bourée lessons and tournament, bus and boat tours, a 5K run and food, food, food. Anyone who is familiar with James Lee Burke and his fictional character, detective Dave Robicheaux, knows of New Iberia and our fascinating blend of heritage, hospitality and history. Amenities Family Friendly Handicapped Accessible Free Parking Street Parking Phone: (337) 369-6446 Email:  techefest@gmail.com Social: Facebook Postcards from Louisiana. Lundi Gras parade. Listen on Apple Podcasts. Listen on audible. Listen on Spotify. Listen on TuneIn. Listen on iHeartRadio. The Louisiana Anthology Home Page. Like us on Facebook. 

567. This week we talk to novelist Diane McPhail, author of The Seamstress of New Orleans: A Fascinating Novel of Southern Historical Fiction. Set against the backdrop of the first all-female Mardi Gras krewe at the turn-of-the-century, the acclaimed author’s mesmerizing historical novel tells of two strangers separated by background but bound by an unexpected secret — and of the strength and courage women draw from and inspire in each other. “Constance Halstead, a young widow reeling with shock under the threat of her late husband’s gambling debts, has thrown herself into charitable work. Meeting Alice at the orphanage, she offers lodging in exchange for Alice’s help creating a gown for the Leap Year ball of Les Mysterieuses, the first all‑female krewe of Mardi Gras.... Piece by piece, the breathtaking gown takes shape, becoming a symbol of strength for both women, reflecting their progress toward greater independence.” This week in Louisiana history. March 30, 1870. 15th amendment gave Blacks the right to vote. This week in New Orleans history. Delta Air Lines, Inc., DC-8, N802E, operating as Flight 9877, crashed during a landing approach to Runway 1 at New Orleans International Airport, Kenner, Louisiana, on March 30, 1967. Five crewmembers and an FAA observer were fatally injured. This was a training flight with no passengers aboard; however, impact occurred in a residential area and 13 persons on the ground were also killed. The aircraft, several homes and part of a motel complex were destroyed. This week in Louisiana. April 5-7, 2024 Don't Miss Our 11th Annual Boudin Festival Come to the Scott Boudin Festival Website Boudin is deeply ingrained in Cajun culture, and the Scott, LA community is proud to celebrate and share it. You can find all kinds of mouth-watering boudin at the Scott Boudin Festival. We host local vendors that serve up a variety of boudin types and flavors, like cheese-filled, jalapeño and more. You can get your fill of authentic boudin at our festival. Purchase your tickets today. Postcards from Louisiana. Listen on Apple Podcasts. Listen on audible. Listen on Spotify. Listen on TuneIn. Listen on iHeartRadio. The Louisiana Anthology Home Page. Like us on Facebook. 

566. This week we talk to rap artist Mimzy MC. Rapper. Mimzy MC, born and raised Mim McCoy in Shreveport, LA, has been influenced by artists such as ICP, Korn, Eminem, Timbaland, and Cindi Lauper. She wishes to accomplish visual and listening pleasure with her unique style for all others to enjoy! Her philosophy regarding her visual art is, “My inward energy being manifested outwardly that cannot be expressed verbally. Only visually.” How she feels and how she is moved by music enhances her abstract techniques. She has branded clothing and other merchandise with her images. "There are no rules to art or music everyone is welcome" (Mimzy MC). This week in Louisiana history. March 23, 1805. The Corps of Discovery left Fort Clatsop and began their return journey. This week in New Orleans history.  The last French Prefect (governor), Pierre Clément de Laussat, arrived in New Orleans on March 23, 1803, formally took control of Louisiana for France on November 30, 1803, only to hand it over to the U.S. on December 20, 1803. In the meantime he created New Orleans' first city council. This week in Louisiana. March 29-31, 2024 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM Admission: Free before 5 PM Louisiana Lao New Year Festival Wat Thammarattanaram Temple 7913 Champa Ave. Broussard, LA 70518 (337) 378-9469 Website Lafayette, LA Lanexang Village celebrates the Lao New Year every Easter weekend with a three-day festival that includes live music, a beauty pageant, parades, sand castle building, kids activities, and several vendors selling clothes, jewelry, music and food from Southeast Asia. Postcards from Louisiana. William Orman at the Apple Barrel. Listen on Apple Podcasts. Listen on audible. Listen on Spotify. Listen on TuneIn. Listen on iHeartRadio. The Louisiana Anthology Home Page. Like us on Facebook. 

565. Catharine Cole, Louisiana journalist. Louisiana Studies Conference presentation. Stephen & Bruce give their presentation about Catharine Cole, one of Louisiana's first women journalists. Catharine was best known from visiting every parish in the state at that time, writing articles on each one that reached every corner of Louisiana and beyond. "Martha Reinhard Smallwood Field (May 24, 1854 – December 19, 1898), known as Mattie Field, was an American journalist. She usually wrote under the pen name Catharine Cole. She was one of the earliest professional women newspaper reporters in New Orleans, Louisiana. A champion of women's education and social justice, she also founded the city's first circulating library and helped found a number of other civic institutions." Wiki. This week in Louisiana history. March 16, 1806. Norbert Rillieux, inventor of sugar refining, born 1806-1894. This week in New Orleans history. Musician Leon Joseph Roppolo (nicknamed "Rap") was born on March 16, 1902 in Lutcher, Louisiana. His family, of Sicilian origin, moved to Uptown New Orleans about 1912. Young Leon's first instrument was the violin. He was a fan of the marching bands he heard in the streets of New Orleans, and learned to play clarinet. This week in Louisiana. March 20-24, 2024. Website Schedule Tennessee Williams and New Orleans Literary Festival A New Orleans affair for readers, writers, & theatre lovers! We're excited to present our 38th Annual TWFest, including writer's craft sessions, literary panels, theatre events, author interviews, literary walking tours, culinary & cocktail events, and music events. And don’t forget our Stella Shouting Contest kicking it all off on Sunday, March 17! Join award-winning writers, historians, scholars, journalists, actors, musicians, and cultural experts for five days of literary revelry in the lush Bohemia of New Orleans. Postcards from Louisiana. John Joyce at the dba. Listen on Apple Podcasts. Listen on audible. Listen on Spotify. Listen on TuneIn. Listen on iHeartRadio. The Louisiana Anthology Home Page. Like us on Facebook. 

564. Candidate Richard Anderson talks to us about his campaign to be elected to the Louisiana DSCC. The Democratic State Central Committee (DSCC) is the governing body for the Democratic Party of Louisiana and has sole responsibility for the affairs of the Louisiana Democratic Party. This is Richard's call for support: "For a NEW DAY, VOTE # 3 for Richard R Anderson of the Richard Anderson Campaign as the Louisiana Democratic State Central Committee Member representing District 11-B encompasses BIENVILLE, CLAIBORNE and LINCOLN PARISHES in NORTH CENTRAL LOUISIANA during the March 23rd Election Cycle. Please REPOST and SHARE to ALL YOU KNOW in that region of Louisiana. Thanks for your time and help." "A PROACTIVE Democratic Party working on behalf of its constituents is key to gain the confidence and stimulate future participation but it's time to organize and get back to work with people that want better for themselves." This week in Louisiana history. March 9, 1804. Three Flags Ceremony in St. Louis - Spain transfers Upper Louisiana to France, France then transfers it to the United States (March 9-10) This week in New Orleans history. James Mather (c. 1750 in England – 1821 in St. James Parish, Louisiana) was mayor of New Orleans from March 9, 1807 to October 8, 1812. His place of birth is variously given as Coupland in Northumberland; or London. A merchant by trade, he moved to America in 1776, and by 1780 he was working in New Orleans, contracting with the Spanish Government to operate two vessels out of the port and importing articles required in the trade with the Indians of Louisiana and West Florida. Mather & his descendents owned a large sugar plantation in Lutcher, Louisiana until 1879. He was appointed mayor of New Orleans by William C.C. Claiborne, governor of the Louisiana Territory. This week in Louisiana. Choctaw Firemen's Fair March 08, 2024 - March 10, 2024 Visit Website 2854 Choctaw Road Thibodaux LA 70301 Thrown by the Choctaw Volunteer Fire Department, the Fireman's Fair is a fun 3-day celebration for the whole family. Enjoy live music, great Cajun food, amusement rides, a live auction, and a parade on Sunday. Phone: (985) 633-2888 Email: choctawfiredept@gmail.com Postcards from Louisiana. Boardwalker & the 3 finger swingers sing at Bamboulas. Listen on Apple Podcasts. Listen on audible. Listen on Spotify. Listen on TuneIn. The Louisiana Anthology Home Page. Like us on Facebook. 

563. Cordelia Frances Biddle visits with us this week. She has written a biography of Saint Katharine Drexel, the founder of Xavier University. Saint Katharine: The Life of Katharine Drexel. "Katharine Drexel devoted her life to social justice, creating schools for those whom racism marginalized and persecuted. Born in 1858, she died in 1955; her life reflects the nation’s history: the tumultuous years leading to the Civil War, Lincoln’s assassination, Reconstruction, Jim Crow, the movement for Women’s Suffrage, and the Equal Rights Movement.” “Cordelia teaches creative writing at Drexel University’s Pennoni Honors College. She won the Honors College Teaching Excellence Prize in 2012, and The Adjunct Faculty Award in 2021.” This week in Louisiana history. March 2, 1805. Louisiana becomes "organized" territory, upper part becomes District of Louisiana with capital at St. Louis by act of Congress This week in New Orleans history. March 1, 1967, New Orleans District Attorney Jim Garrison arrested Clay Shaw on the charge of conspiracy to assassinate President John F. Kennedy. Precisely two years later, on March 1, 1969, Shaw was acquitted by the jury in less than an hour of deliberation. This week in Louisiana. Here’s the Beef Cook-Off. The annual Here's the Beef Cook-Off in Opelousas is the best place to sample brisket, roast, gravies, and stews. There's also live music and a trail ride. March 2, 2024 8:00 AM - 12:00 AM Yambilee Building 1939 West Landry Street Opelousas, LA 70570 United States Postcards from Louisiana. John Joyce at dba.

562. This week we talk to Greta de Jong about civil rights in North Louisiana.  "Civil rights in North LA. Examining African Americans' struggles for freedom and justice in rural Louisiana during the Jim Crow and civil rights eras, Greta de Jong illuminates the connections between the informal strategies of resistance that black people pursued in the early twentieth century and the mass protests that emerged in the 1950s and 1960s. Using evidence drawn from oral histories and a wide range of other sources, she demonstrates that rural African Americans were politically aware and active long before civil rights organizers arrived in the region in the 1960s to encourage voter registration and demonstrations against segregation." "Greta de Jong is Associate Professor at the University of Nevada, Reno. Her research focuses on the connections between race and class and the ways that African Americans have fought for economic as well as political rights from the end of slavery through the twenty-first century. She is the author of A Different Day: African American Struggles for Justice in Rural Louisiana, 1900-1970 (2002)." This week in Louisiana history. February 24, 1843. Bossier Parish created out of Natchitoches District, named for Pierre E. Bossier.  This week in New Orleans history. "Ernest Kador, Jr, known by the stage name Ernie K-Doe (the self proclaimed "Emperor of the World") was born at Charity Hospital on February 22, 1936. He recorded as a member of the group the Blue Diamonds in 1954 before making his first solo recordings the following year. "Mother-in-Law",  his best known 1961 hit single, written by Allen Toussaint, was his first hit, and was #1 on both the Billboard pop and R&B charts."  “I'm not sure, but I'm almost positive that all music came from New Orleans.” This week in Louisiana. 4th Annual Bayou Terrebonne Boucherie (Pork BBQ) March 02, 2024 Downtown Houma 8043 Main Street Houma, LA Website "Join us downtown on March 2, 2024, at the fourth Annual Bayou Terrebonne Boucherie for a day of food, festivity, and teamwork. In addition to mounds of pork, there will be live music and the now-famous Cajun Cup (a series of bayou-themed competitions). Whether spectating or participating, it'll be a day of good Cajun fun for the whole family. C'mon out, and let's have a good time! Proceeds will go towards quality-of-life projects in Terrebonne Parish, making our home a better place to live." Postcards from Louisiana. Boardwalker & the 3 finger swingers sing at Bamboulas.  Listen on Apple Podcasts. Listen on audible. Listen on Spotify. Listen on TuneIn. The Louisiana Anthology Home Page. Like us on Facebook. 

561. Part 2 of our friend Kelly Jackson's return to the podcast to discuss her Metoyer documentary. “Kelly is the creator of the Cane River Film Festival. The film festival is sponsored by her historical preservation nonprofit – the Resurrection Fern Foundation. Resurrection Fern serves as a way for Kelly to support her community events and historical films. A project close to Kelly’s heart is the documentary “Resurrection Fern: The Life and Times of Marie Thérèse Coincoin,” a film about her ancestors in 17th Century Natchitoches, Louisiana. Kelly Jackson is a 7th generation descendant of Marie Thérèse Coincoin and Claude Thomas Pierre Metoyer. “On Facebook in 2010, I noticed others with the odd name of my grandmother from Louisiana,” Kelly says. “She never knew of her family history, so finding these roots was life-changing.” Kelly was so inspired by Coincoin’s story from slavery to freedom that she wanted her to be the focus of her next film” (Soul Vision Magazine). This week in Louisiana history. February 17, 1805. New Orleans is incorporated as a city This week in New Orleans history. On February 17, 1805, Governor William C. C. Claiborne approved "An Act to Incorporate the City of New Orleans" that had just been passed by the Legislative Council of the Territory of Orleans. New Orleans thus had its first charter seven years before Louisiana had its first constitution, and was now officially an American city after serving for eighty-three years as the capital of a vast European colony in North America. This week in Louisiana. "Eagles — The Long Goodbye"  Smoothie King Center February 17, 2024. 1501 Dave Dixon Drive New Orleans, LA, 70113 This iconic venue will set the stage for an unforgettable evening of legendary music. Postcards from Louisiana. TBC at Satchmofest 2023. Listen on Apple Podcasts. Listen on audible. Listen on Spotify. Listen on TuneIn. The Louisiana Anthology Home Page. Like us on Facebook. 

560. Part 1 of our friend Kelly Jackson's return to the podcast to discuss her Metoyer documentary. “Kelly is the creator of the Cane River Film Festival. The film festival is sponsored by her historical preservation nonprofit – the Resurrection Fern Foundation. Resurrection Fern serves as a way for Kelly to support her community events and historical films. A project close to Kelly’s heart is the documentary “Resurrection Fern: The Life and Times of Marie Thérèse Coincoin,” a film about her ancestors in 17th Century Natchitoches, Louisiana. Kelly Jackson is a 7th generation descendant of Marie Thérèse Coincoin and Claude Thomas Pierre Metoyer. “On Facebook in 2010, I noticed others with the odd name of my grandmother from Louisiana,” Kelly says. “She never knew of her family history, so finding these roots was life-changing.” Kelly was so inspired by Coincoin’s story from slavery to freedom that she wanted her to be the focus of her next film” (Soul Vision Magazine). This week in Louisiana history. February 10 1763. Treaty of Paris gave Louisiana Colony to Spain. This week in New Orleans history. Mayor Isaac W. Patton was born in Fredericksbury, Virginia, February 4, 1828.  He engaged in cotton planting on property he purchased in Madison Parish and also looked after a sugar plantation below New Orleans which belonged to his father-in-law This week in Louisiana. Krewe of Isis Parade Sataturday, February 10, 2024 6:00pm Kenner, LA The Krewe of Isis begins at Esplanade Mall on West Esplanade in Kenner. The all-female Krewe of Isis first started parading in Kenner in 1973. Comprised of 200+ riders and 20 floats, this Egyptian-themed krewe is known for its marching bands, dance teams and gloriously attired maids, as well as for its specialty throws including decorated bras in support of breast cancer charities. Postcards from Louisiana. Boardwalker & the 3 finger swingers sing at Bamboulas. Listen on Apple Podcasts. Listen on audible. Listen on Spotify. Listen on TuneIn. The Louisiana Anthology Home Page. Like us on Facebook. 

559.  C.J. Hunt returns to the Podcast to discuss "Neutral Ground — a documentary about memory, monuments, and how to break up with the Confederacy. The Neutral Ground documents New Orleans’ fight over monuments and America’s troubled romance with the Lost Cause. In 2015, director CJ Hunt was filming the New Orleans City Council’s vote to remove four confederate monuments. But when that removal is halted by death threats, CJ sets out to understand why a losing army from 1865 still holds so much power in America." C. J. visited the podcast with Kyle June Williams on April 25, 2014 (Episode 49) to discuss their web series Our Sunken City. If you haven't watched it yet, it's still available. This week in Louisiana history. February 3, 1820. Prohibition of slavery in western territory of Louisianan Purchase. This week in New Orleans history. The Superdome hosted Super Bowl XLVII on February 3, 2013. A partial power failure halted game play for about 34 minutes in the third quarter between the Baltimore Ravens and the San Francisco 49ers. The power outage caused CBS, who was broadcasting the game, to lose some of its cameras as well as voice-overs by the commentators. At no point did the game go off the air, though the game had no audio for about two minutes. While the lights were coming back on, CBS reporters deployed around the stadium reported on the outage as a breaking news situation until power was restored enough for play to continue. This week in Louisiana. Everywhere else, it's just a Tuesday. Monroe/West Monroe. The Krewe of Janus Mardi Gras Parade rolls on Saturday, February 3. Theme: Jammin' with Janus February 3, 2024 Parade rolls at 6:00 PM. This parade is the big one! Floats, marching bands, and beads all come together! The parade begins in West Monroe at 1118 Natchitoches Street and ends at Oliver Road in Monroe. Postcards from Louisiana. Rickey Caesar at Blue Nile. Listen on Apple Podcasts. Listen on audible. Listen on Spotify. Listen on TuneIn. The Louisiana Anthology Home Page. Like us on Facebook. 

558. We talk to urologist Martha Boone about her work at the old Charity Hospital and the books she's written about it. "The Big Free is Charity Hospital and it’s 1982 in New Orleans, and Charity is a big medical free-for-all. Elizabeth is one of the first women in the toughest surgery department in America. With her pearls and her pink plaid socks, she doesn’t fit in …at first. Half the doctors who start the surgery program never finish. Nothing in her proper southern upbringing prepares Elizabeth for the violence, debauchery and intensity of inner city trauma surgery. The Big Free is filled with unforgettable characters living the best and the worst New Orleans has to offer" (Boone). "Dr. Martha Boone is one of the first one hundred women board certified in urology. After 23 years of education, she practiced academic urology for five years and private practice for twenty-four. She was named TOP DOC in urology in Atlanta for over a decade. Her first novel The Big Free fictionalizes her first six months at Charity Hospital in New Orleans. Her current book, The Unfettered Urologist, is nonfiction and explains the pearls of wisdom she never had time to include in a short office visit. It will be available August 15,2023. Her third book, Mother Charity, will be released in March of 2024 and is the sequel to The Big Free. Dr. Boone retired to write full-time and travel with her husband" (Boone). This week in Louisiana history. January 27, 1730. Jean Paul LeSueur leads 500 Choctaw Indians against the Natchez Indians. This week in New Orleans history. Lakeview Theater Opens January 28, 1942. With 700 seats and a parking lot able to accommodate 300 cars, the Lakeview Theater became the first movie house in Lakeview when it first opened its doors on January 28, 1942. Located at the corner of Harrison Avenue and Vicksburg Street (one block from Canal Boulevard), it was built by contractor Robert E. Smith who was the owner/partner of Guy P. Spicuzza who managed the theater.  Draperies and rugs were furnished by D.H. Holmes. Adult tickets sold for 25 cents.  Children were admitted for 11 cents.  The management promised a policy of four program changes per week. This week in Louisiana. Postcards from Louisiana. Boardwalker & the 3 finger swingers sing at Bamboulas.  Listen on Apple Podcasts. Listen on audible. Listen on Spotify. Listen on TuneIn. The Louisiana Anthology Home Page. Like us on Facebook. 

557. We're excited to have Chad Adams on the podcast to discuss his novel, How to Walk on a Marsh. “On his first ever hunting excursion as a young boy, James takes an uncalculated step in the delicate South Louisiana marsh that becomes the catalyst for a metaphor used by his dad which foreshadows his life: there’s an art to navigating the marshland, and the steps you take while on your journey can cause you to either sink or swim. Through their many adventures together, James’ dad helps him to recognize and learn that with a respect and appreciation for the outdoors, important lessons can be found, and an unwavering bond woven full of love and admiration between father and son can be had.” “Born and raised in Southeast Louisiana, Chad Adams has a love for the outdoors that dates back to early childhood fishing trips with his dad along the state’s beautiful gulf coast. His articles about duck hunting can be found in Louisiana Sportsman” (Amazon). This week in Louisiana history. January 20, 1980. Terry Bradshaw (Louisiana), Pittsburgh Steelers, QB, named Superbowl XIV MVP. This week in New Orleans history. Photographer John Norris Teunisson is born January 20, 1869. The New Orleans Public Library's collection of  Teunisson prints include views of the Atlanteans carnival ball of 1940, carnival decorations on downtown streets in 1906, the Fisk Free and Public Library, local hotels (including photographs of drawings of hotels), riverfront scenes, and other miscellaneous local sites. Additional collections of Teunisson photographs can be found  at the Louisiana Digital Library. This week in Louisiana. January 26, 2024. The Krewe Bohème is a marching parade which travels through the Marigny and the French Quarter. It is the first parade to roll after Twelfth Night. Their goal is to present a visual and auditory feast of mystery, artistry and fun. The procession is led by a symbol of the bohemian spirit, a green absinthe fairy, followed by several inner krewe marching clubs: Postcards from Louisiana. Stephen Walker at the Frenchmen Hotel.  Listen on Apple Podcasts. Listen on audible. Listen on Spotify. Listen on TuneIn. The Louisiana Anthology Home Page. Like us on Facebook. 

556. Today we talk with Richard Sexton and Randolf Delehanty about the 2nd edition of their classic work, New Orleans: Elegance and Decadence. The book focuses on the interiors, furnishings, art collections, and gardens of a handful of creative people in New Orleans in the 1990s. Dreamers and urban pioneers, they included bohemian artists, artisans, architects, preservationists, activists, antiquarians, restaurateurs, and teachers, all living outside the American mainstream. They tolerated crumbling plaster, exposed lathe, and sagging galleries in exchange for communal festivity and joie de vivre. Richard is returning to the Podcast after an earlier visit when we discussed his book, Creole World. This week in Louisiana history. January 13, 1818, Noah Ludlow opens St. Philip Street Theatre. This week in New Orleans history. Danny Barker was born January 13, 1909. African-America Creole guitar and banjo player, songwriter, composer, singer, author, historian, teacher, storyteller, humorist, actor, painter. Jazz Hall of Fame member.  Recipient of the National Endowment of the Arts Music Master Award and numerous other honors. Played on more than 1,000 records of Jazz, Swing, Blues, Bebop, and Traditional.  Husband of legendary singer Blue Lu Barker. This week in Louisiana. Krewe of Chewbacchus Parade. Saturday, January 20, 7:00 pm in Marigny. he parade consists of roughly 100 contraptions which are either pushed, pedaled, or pulled and are built onto bicycles, homemade trailers, and shopping carts. Chewbacchus believes that green parades are the “Future of Revelry” and does not use internal combustion engines to power floats. The mad scientists who engineer the krewe’s contraptions have found clever ways to build amazing floats that don’t require petroleum products. Postcards from Louisiana. Rickey Caesar at Blue Nile. Listen on Apple Podcasts. Listen on audible. Listen on Spotify. Listen on TuneIn. The Louisiana Anthology Home Page. Like us on Facebook. 

555. This week we talk to Randy Gonzales about his poetry book Settling St. Malo. "I am excited about the launch of a book I spent more than a decade writing. My research into Filipino Louisiana started as a way to understand my family’s Filipino story. I learned that without the fishermen at St. Malo, the shrimpers at Manila Village, and the seamen who settled in New Orleans, my Filipino ancestors may not have moved to Louisiana. Poetry — attention to sound, rhythm, and the emotional register of words — helped me organize and make sense of research and make it meaningful to me" (Gonzales). "I am a native New Orleanian of Filipino descent; a poet, writer, and community historian who researches and shares the stories of Filipino Louisiana; a scholar and educator, an associate professor of English at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette who holds the Dr. James Wilson/BORSF Eminent Scholar Endowed Professorship in Southern Studies; a father who wants his children to be proud of their heritage" (Gonzales). This week in Louisiana history. January 8 1815. The Battle of New Orleans took place. This week in New Orleans history. On January 7, 1944, the Liberty ship Leon Godchaux was launched by Delta Shipbuilding Company. This week in Louisiana. The Feast of Epiphany is a Christian feast day commemorating the visit of the Magi, the baptism of Jesus, and the wedding at Cana. It's also the beginning of Carnival. Less than two weeks after Christmas, New Orleans begins the reveling anew with its celebration of Twelfth Night. Jan. 6th marks the Feast of the Epiphany, when the Three Wise Men visited the Christ child. In New Orleans it also means the launch of Carnival season. And New Orleans observes it with the Joan of Arc parade that marches through the Quarter. Société Des Champs Elysée rolls down the Rampart - St. Claude Avenue streetcar line nearby. Meanwhile Uptown, the Phunny Phorty Phellows board the St. Charles streetcar for a parade all their own. This is followed by the Funky Uptown Krewe. Postcards from Louisiana. Bubbles Brown at the Apple Barrel on Frenchmen. Listen on Spotify. Listen on TuneIn. The Louisiana Anthology Home Page. Like us on Facebook. 

554. Part 2 of our interview of Derby Gisclair about his newest book, New Orleans Steamboat Stories – The Brief Lives of Mississippi Riverboats. "Steamboats shaped America’s future, its economy, and its culture while expanding trade and expanding the country’s footprint into new territories. This economic expansion was not limited to New Orleans, but also to Cincinnati, St. Louis, Pittsburgh, Memphis, Louisville, Nashville, St. Paul, Kansas City, and Chattanooga. A round trip voyage from Pittsburgh to New Orleans that once took six months could now be accomplished in forty-five days. At the same time steamboats made it possible to circulate and disseminate the news and the mail, to spread the various immigrant cultures, food, and music. New Orleans Steamboat Stories contains stories of a handful of the different steamboats and the people who lived and worked on the Western rivers. They are brief in nature as the average life of a steamboat was generally short. But their impact culturally and commercially, esthetically and economically, made a lasting impact on the development of America" (Jefferson Parish). This week in Louisiana history. December 23, 1813. Legislative Act #5 provides for official state seal. This week in New Orleans history. Storyland Dedication, December 30, 1956. During the 1950s Storyland in City Park was filled with Nursery Rhyme figures created by a young man who would become the most noted Mardi Gras float builder in the city; it was funded by an older man who owned and operated the most popular amusement park in the south.  This week in Louisiana. New Year's Eve in New Orleans Website New Orleans is the perfect place to ring in the new year. Whether you want to grab dinner and turn in for the night early, celebrate at a children’s event during the day, or party all night long, we’ve got something for everyone. Here’s how to celebrate New Year’s Eve in New Orleans.      For the biggest party in the city, head to Jackson Square – the Quarter is packed with festive partygoers eager to countdown the time until the New Year arrives with the Fleur De Lis drop.      If outdoor celebrations and big crowds are not for you, make a reservation at one of the city’s many fine restaurants and celebrate the evening over delectable meals and of course, lots of bubbly. Many restaurants offer special deals or packages for the evening, so make sure you check ahead to ensure the perfect night for you, your loved ones and friends. See here for our list of restaurants open for New Year’s Eve.      Experience New Year's Eve like never before at Vue Orleans atop the Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans. This year, join the party 34 floors above the Mississippi River for a fireworks display to remember. Vue Orleans offers unmatched bird’s-eye views of the New Orleans fireworks, adult beverages, light passed appetizers, DJ music, and a champagne toast at midnight. The celebration begins at 10 p.m. Tickets are limited, must be 21 to purchase and attend. Postcards from Louisiana. John Joyce band at dba. Listen on Spotify. Listen on TuneIn. The Louisiana Anthology Home Page. Like us on Facebook. 

553. We chat with Derby Gisclair about his newest book, New Orleans Steamboat Stories – The Brief Lives of Mississippi Riverboats. "Steamboats shaped America’s future, its economy, and its culture while expanding trade and expanding the country’s footprint into new territories. This economic expansion was not limited to New Orleans, but also to Cincinnati, St. Louis, Pittsburgh, Memphis, Louisville, Nashville, St. Paul, Kansas City, and Chattanooga. A round trip voyage from Pittsburgh to New Orleans that once took six months could now be accomplished in forty-five days. At the same time steamboats made it possible to circulate and disseminate the news and the mail, to spread the various immigrant cultures, food, and music. New Orleans Steamboat Stories contains stories of a handful of the different steamboats and the people who lived and worked on the Western rivers. They are brief in nature as the average life of a steamboat was generally short. But their impact culturally and commercially, esthetically and economically, made a lasting impact on the development of America" (Jefferson Parish). This week in Louisiana history. December 15, 1802. Pres. Jefferson, worried of French takeover of La., seeks to purchase Isle of Orleans This week in New Orleans history. The New Orleans Church of St. Louis, which had been rebuilt after being destroyed in the fire of 1788, was dedicated as a cathedral on December 23, 1794. This week in Louisiana. 97th Annual Natchitoches Christmas Festival Webpage November 18th, 2023 - January 6th, 2024 Christmas Cheer Since 1927 Named after a Native American tribe, Natchitoches (pronounced Nack-a-tish ) is the oldest permanent settlement in the Louisiana Purchase Territory. Since 1927, we are home to one of the oldest community-based holiday celebrations in the country. Starting as a one-day festival, the Natchitoches Christmas Festival has evolved into a six-week long Christmas Season. The Christmas Season begins on the Saturday before Thanksgiving and concludes on January the 6th, the Epiphany. Over 300,000 lights and 100 plus set pieces are on display every night at dusk. Postcards from Louisiana. David Middleton. "The Shepherd. A Christmas Play." Listen on Spotify. Listen on TuneIn. The Louisiana Anthology Home Page. Like us on Facebook. 

552.  Today we talk with Doug Duffey, North Louisiana blues musician. "Blues musician.Doug Duffey is a singer, songwriter, pianist, bandleader, music arranger, record producer, music publisher, poet, diarist, photographer and visual artist. From Monroe, Louisiana, Doug Duffey was inducted into the "Louisiana Hall of Fame" in April, 2001 and inducted into the National Blues Hall of Fame in 2009" (Wikipedia). This week in Louisiana history. December 8, 1879. Citizens of Louisiana ratified a new state constitution. Simultaneously, the state capital was moved from New Orleans to Baton Rouge. This week in New Orleans history. The World Cotton Centennial (World's Fair) opened in New Orleans on December 16, 1884 and ran until June 2, 1885 in what is now Audubon Park. It featured displays with a great deal of electric light illumination, an observation tower with electric elevators, and several prototype designs of electric streetcars. This week in Louisiana. Celebration in the Oaks City Park, New Orleans, LA November 24 - January 1 Website This well-known light display in New Orleans beautifully highlights the lovely collection of Live Oak trees that are found in New Orleans. Perfect for a date night or an evening with the kids, this is one of of the most popular holiday light displays in Louisiana. From late November until early January, over a million dazzling lights illuminate 25 acres of City Park in what can only be described as pure magic. Postcards from Louisiana. Stephen Walker Band at the Frenchmen Hotel. Listen on Google Play. Listen on Spotify. Listen on TuneIn. The Louisiana Anthology Home Page. Like us on Facebook.