WHAT: Honoring Negro Farmers of St. Landry Parish
WHO: The general public is invited
WHEN: February 17, 2022 from 1 to 7 p.m.
WHERE: Opelousas Museum & Interpretive Center, 315 N Main St., Opelousas, LA 70570
CONTACT: Patrice Melnick 337-948-2589; museum@cityofopelousas.com
Opelousas Museum and Interpretive Center honors the Negro Farmers of St. Landry Parish on Thursday, February 17, 2022. The program will exhibit the farming process–how local farmers grew cotton, rice, sugarcane and other local crops.
Coordinated by local genealogist Marie Marcel, this day-long open house presents historical and current contributions of Negro farmers in the area. Displays of photos and farming tools will illustrate the work and lives of agriculturalists. Throughout the day, special guests will share wisdom and stories of cultivating crops; presentations by academics will provide historical and social context. Interactive activities include a local farmers market on the premises with bushels of greens and root vegetables for sale. Free samples of prepared local vegetables give everyone the opportunity to taste the freshness provided by these growers. The exhibit will inspire a greater appreciation for the significant role of Negro farmers in the community—historically and today.
The project is sponsored by the Atchafalaya National Heritage Area, a division of the Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism. The project also receives support from CLECO and the City of Opelousas.
FMI: Patrice Melnick 337-948-2589; museum@cityofopelousas.com
