The Laura Center for Creole Heritage

Imagine Louisiana at a time when English-speaking Americans were seen as immigrants and foreigners by the pre-existing Native American, European (mainly French and Spanish), and West-African (both enslaved and free) populations of the former colony, founded in 1699.

To be Creole

The non-Anglo culture and identity that flourished in Louisiana before 1803

Born in Louisiana

Native to Louisaina

Francophone

Spoke the the French, Creole and/or Spanish language

Catholic

of the Roman
Catholic faith

Our Mission

The Laura Center for Creole Heritage exists to support the preservation and promotion of Louisiana Creole culture by enhancing awareness and understanding of Louisiana Creole history, identity, language, and traditions through educational, artistic, cultural, and community service initiatives for the benefit of the general public.
 
The Laura Center also works to support and complement the efforts of the Laura Plantation Company, which operates the historic plantation as a cultural heritage tourism site.

About us

What is Creole?
 
“Creole” is the non-Anglo culture and identity that flourished in Louisiana before the territory was sold to the United States in 1803. 
 
In the 19th century, Creole identity was primarily defined by three elements: native birth in Louisiana, the French, Creole and/or Spanish language, and the Roman Catholic faith. Historically, Creole identity transcended both race and a person’s legal status as free or enslaved. 
 
Today, “Creole” is recognized as a blend of cultural influences from the three groups that were present in colonial, pre-1803 Louisiana: Native American, Western European and West African.

PROJECTS & PROGRAMMING

2025
Interpretive panels in Louisiana Creole

(LCCH, Government of Québec, Digihub)

2021
Louisiana Creole Voices:

Preserving Recordings of Enslaved People Along the Mississippi River (LCCH, LEH, NEH)

Scholarships

The Laura Center Scholarship for Creole Excellence seeks to provide students with supportive funding to attend a Louisiana university or technical college. It is our hope that recipients will use their degree or certification to promote Louisiana culture to future generations. . Each year, four $500 scholarships will be awarded to students who meet the scholarship requirements, exemplify a desire to promote Louisiana Heritage, and actively engage in efforts to educate others on the rich history of Louisiana.

Our team

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Samantha Doe

Lead Strategist

Olivia Rodriguez

Financial Analyst

Marcus Douglas

Software Engineer

Does Creole Heritage excite you?

Ready to collaborate on one of our upcoming projects? Do you have an idea to bring to us? Explore our site and find out how you can support us and we can support you. Together, we’ll make it happen.

Contact us

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