This program will take place on Thurs., July 16 at the Shadows Visitor Center (320 E. Main St., New Iberia). A light reception begins at 5:30 p.m., followed by the program at 6 p.m. Admission is free, and registration is encouraged. Attendees may register for the in-person program online or join via the livestream.

About the Speaker:

Kenneth Hoffman was born in Houston and raised in Baton Rouge. He earned a B.A. and an M.A. in history from Tulane University. Hoffman started his museum career as a grant writer for the New Orleans Museum of Art and as the curator of education at the Louisiana State Museum. From 2004 to 2006, he served as president of the Louisiana Association of Museums, leading the association through the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.

In 2017, Hoffman ended an eighteen-year tenure as director of education at The National WWII Museum when he was hired to create the Museum of the Southern Jewish Experience, in New Orleans, which opened in May 2021. He currently serves as the museum’s executive director. Hoffman, his wife, and their two children live in New Orleans’ Black Pearl neighborhood, yet don’t eat at Camellia Grill nearly enough.

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Kodi Roberts

In celebration of Juneteenth, the Shadows-on-the-Teche and the Iberia African American Historical Society are hosting the Faith and Freedom Symposium on Fri., June 19, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Shadows Visitor Center (320 E. Main St., New Iberia). The symposium is free to attend, and registration is encouraged.

The Faith and Freedom Symposium will explore how African Americans have used religious beliefs, spiritual practices, and sacred spaces as tools of community organization across freedom movements — including Abolition, Civil Rights, and Black Lives Matter. Attendees may register for the in-program online or join via the livestream.

Keynote Speaker:

The keynote address will be delivered by Dr. Kodi A. Roberts of Louisiana State University, whose research examines race, resistance, and community through the lens of faith and faith-based traditions. Dr. Roberts is the author of Voodoo & Power: The Politics of Religion in New Orleans. He will speak at 11:15 a.m., followed by a book signing at 12:15 p.m.

For a limited time, signed copies of Voodoo and Power are available at the Shadows Museum Shop (320 E. Main Street, New Iberia) for 15% off, in person or online.

About the Keynote:

Dr. Kodi A. Roberts is an Associate Professor of History at Louisiana State University specializing in African American history, with a focus on the intersections of race, religion, and resistance in the United States. He earned his Ph.D. in History from the University of Chicago, along with degrees from Louisiana State University and the University of New Orleans.

Dr. Roberts is the author of Voodoo and Power: The Politics of Religion in New Orleans, 1881–1940, a widely recognized study of the cultural, political, and economic dimensions of Voodoo in New Orleans. His research and teaching explore Afro-Atlantic religions, racial ideologies, and movements for social change, with particular attention to the historical and contemporary significance of African diasporic spiritual traditions.

Schedule:

• 9:15 a.m. — Jim Crow South and the Catholic Church: Uncovering the History of Desegregation at Loyola University New Orleans
  Em Lessley, Mare Lodu, and Janine Smith – Loyola University New Orleans
• 10:15 a.m. – Rural Churches as Tradition Keepers
  Phebe Hayes, PhD – Iberia African American Historical Society
  Harlan Mark Guidry, MD – St. Augustine Historical Society
• 11:15 a.m. — Keynote: Voodoo and Power, The Politics of Religion in New Orleans
  Kodi A. Roberts – PhD, Louisiana State University
• 12:15 p.m. — Book Signing with Dr. Kodi Roberts

Upcoming in the Series:

Thursday, July 16 – Southern Jewish Experience with Kenneth Hoffman

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Join the Shadows for Hats & Spats on Sat., April 18, 2026, from 3–5 p.m. in the beautiful gardens of Shadows-on-the-Teche (317 E. Main St., New Iberia).

This lively springtime gathering invites guests to don their finest hats and classic spats for an afternoon of style, history, and handcrafted cocktails. Tickets are $35 per person and can be purchased online.

Guests will enjoy tastings featuring Red Reed Vodka and a special appearance by Richard Landry, winner of Discovery Channel’s Moonshiners: Master Distiller. Sip on the event’s signature cocktail, the refreshing Basil Lemon Drop Martini, while mingling in the garden atmosphere and playing croquet. Light refreshments and wine will also be served.

This event is open to guests ages 21 and over. Special thanks to Red Reed Vodka and First Horizon Bank for helping to make this event possible.

(Updated 4/8/2026)

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The Iberia African American Historical Society (IAAHS) is pleased to announce the launch of History Tables, a new community initiative designed to bring neighbors together for meaningful, informal conversations about the African American history of Iberia Parish and surrounding communities.

Beginning Sat., March 21, from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m., History Tables will meet every 1st and 3rd Saturday of each month. Rather than gathering in one fixed location, the initiative is intentionally designed to meet the community where people already gather. The first table will meet at Da Berry Fresh Market (520 S. Hopkins St., New Iberia).

“History belongs to all of us,” said Dr. Phebe A. Hayes, Founder and President of the Iberia African American Historical Society. “History Tables creates space for neighbors to sit together, listen to one another, and better understand the true and inclusive history of our community. Everyone has a seat at the table.”

What is History Tables:

History Tables provide residents with the opportunity to engage in open, respectful dialogue about local African American history: Research that has been uncovered and how that history continues to influence our lives today. These gatherings are intentionally informal and discussion-based, creating a welcoming environment where neighbors can learn from one another while exploring the shared history of our community.

Participants are encouraged to purchase refreshments from our hosting merchant but also welcome to bring their coffees, teas, juices.

Open to All:

All who are interested in the history of African Americans of Iberia Parish are welcome to attend at no charge. No formal background in history is required, only interest and a willingness to participate in civil, respectful conversation.

Because seating is limited and conversations are designed to remain small and interactive, pre-registration is required. Enrollment is limited to a maximum of 10 participants per session. Interested participants can register online.

The specific location for each gathering will be announced in advance.

Event Locations:

Plans are to host the History Tables throughout Iberia Parish — including Jeanerette, Lydia, Patoutville, Morbihan, Olivier, and other communities — so that residents across the parish have opportunities to participate.

Examples of meeting locations include Da’ Berry Market (Hopkins Street), Annointed Soul Food Restaurant (Iberia Street), the IAAHS Center for Research & Learning (2nd floor, The Shadows Visitors Center), community coffee shops, local churches, libraries, and other public spaces around Iberia Parish.

These gathering places are not limited only to the city of New Iberia. Future Tables will meet where possible in the rural communities of Iberia (e.g., Jeanerette, Olivier, Morbihan, Grand Marais, Neco Town, Loreauville, Freetown, Patoutville).

(Updated 3/9/26)

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Read Next:

• Love Defined Performance for Black History Month
• “In Their Honor” Cemetery Tour

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Books Along the Teche Literary Festival & The Iberia African American Historical Society Present Performance for Black History Month

The Books Along the Teche Literary Festival (April 10 – 12), in partnership with the Iberia African American Historical Society, invites the community to a special Black History Month performance of Love Defined on Sat., Feb. 21, from 1 – 3 p.m., on the front lawn of Shadows-on-the-Teche for an afternoon of historical storytelling and music.

The educational presentation is an original one-woman musical by Lafayette artist Gale Whiting. Presented in two acts and four scenes, the performance brings to life the voices and legacies of Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald, Dinah Washington, and Sarah Vaughan who are four legendary women whose artistry helped shape jazz, blues, pop and swing music.

The production includes narration by Timothy Sam, guiding audiences through the stories, music, and cultural impact of these iconic performers. Through storytelling and song, Love Defined offers a meaningful exploration of Black history, artistic expression and enduring influence.

Registration is required in advance. A suggested donation of $10–$15 per person will be collected at the event. Full details and registration information is available here.

Whiting will also be featured during the 2026 Books Along the Teche Literary Festival, held April 10 – 12 in New Iberia, as part of Voices of Jazz: A One-Woman Showcase on Sat., April 11.

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If you enjoyed this, read:

• Books Along the Teche Literary Festival’s Flash Writing Contest
• 2026 Great Southern Writer Announced!

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This year’s fair welcomes talented artists and craftsmen from across Louisiana, including the renowned L’Acadian Art Guild. You’ll find a treasure trove of unique, handmade items perfect for every style and occasion—whether you’re shopping for gifts, sprucing up your home, or treating yourself.

Here’s a taste of what’s waiting for you:

• One-of-a-kind creations: Original art, handmade jewelry, custom woodwork, and ceramics that showcase the talent and culture of Louisiana’s artisans.
• Seasonal delights: Home decor, garden art, and accessories to welcome the warmth of spring.
• Tasty treats and pantry staples: Homemade preserves, baked goods, and savory snacks to satisfy your cravings.
• Family favorites: Stylish children’s clothing, fun hair accessories, and handmade toys and games.

Bring your appetite! Local food and dessert vendors will serve up mouthwatering options to keep you fueled for a full day of shopping and exploration.

Admission is just $5 for ages 13 and older, and children 12 and under enter for FREE. Whether you’re an art lover, a foodie, or someone looking for a lively day out, there’s something for everyone at the fair!

While you’re here, take time to explore downtown New Iberia’s charming shops, restaurants, and cultural landmarks. Make it a full-day outing that the whole family will enjoy.

(Updated 1/23/26)

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If you enjoyed this, read:

• 1st International War Correspondent Lecture at Shadows-on-the-Teche
• Kinder Morgan, Inc. Donation to Shadows-on-the-Teche

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This year’s gala theme highlights the remarkable artifacts and stories showcased at the Bayou Teche Museum. Guests will enjoy a unique opportunity to see featured items up close while discovering fascinating insights about the museum and the rich cultural heritage of the surrounding region.

Following a highly productive 2025, gala attendees will be among the first to experience a brand-new exhibit honoring Governor Kathleen Babineaux Blanco and view a life-size bronze statue, making this evening a truly special preview event.

Guests will also enjoy delicious cuisine from area restaurants serving the dishes that made them famous, along with complimentary wine and beer throughout the evening.

Call the museum at (337) 606-5977 or visit their website to purchase tickets.

Live & Silent Auctions:

The night will feature an exciting live auction with highly sought-after items, including a charter fishing trip for four, a turkey shoot for two, dinner at Bonefish Grill, and many more exclusive offerings. The evening’s live auction will be led by former Sen. Fred Mills, joined by Commissioner of Administration Taylor Barras.

In addition, guests can bid in the silent auction, featuring items secured through The ShareWay and generous local vendors. The silent auction will be hosted on Zeffy, North America’s first and only 100% free fundraising platform for nonprofits.

Proceeds from the gala support the mission of the Bayou Teche Museum and its continued efforts to preserve, interpret, and celebrate the culture and history of the region.

About Bayou Teche Museum:

The state-of-the-art museum with a permanent collection of artifacts and memorabilia from the region tells the story of a growing city, its people, culture and industry all centered around the “snake-like” curves of the Bayou Teche. The museum is home to George Rodrigue’s studio, which includes the painting he was working on before his 2013 death.

(Updated 1/21/26)

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The Shadows-on-the-Teche invites you to explore the journalistic endeavors of William Howard Russell, the Irish journalist who navigated a war-torn United States from 1861-1862.

On Thurs., Feb. 5, Xian Maynor will journey into the harrowing world of 1860s America to discover how the father of war correspondence exposed the realities of the Civil War and challenged perceptions of a divided nation. Experience the powerful impact of Russell’s letters as they reveal the brutal truths of slavery, conflict, and the cost of war.

The event will be held at the Shadows Visitor Center (320 E. Main Street, New Iberia). A light reception begins at 5:30 p.m., followed by the program at 6 p.m. Admission is free and open to the public. Registration is recommended and can be completed online.

About the Speaker:

Xian Maynor is the Public Historian at Shadows-on-the-Teche and has spent the past eight years studying and interpreting history. A devoted scholar of Cajun and Creole History and the broader American South, Maynor obtained a Bachelor of the Arts in History from the University of Southern Mississippi and Master of the Arts in Public History and American History from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette.

His early research examined the history of French in Louisiana, both as a linguistic and an ethnic identity, and has since expanded to include other pockets of historical study. Maynor received the Drapeau Center for Undergraduate Research Award for his work on the effects of industrialization on the Cajun and Creole identity. He also wrote, directed, filmed, and produced Kicking the Dust, a documentary exploring Cajun and Creole identity through music and dance.

A French speaker, Maynor’s interests are wide-ranging and include documentary filmmaking, literature, and podcasting. He currently serves on the board of the Franco Fine Arts Exchange, a nonprofit dedicated to preserving Acadian art.

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If you enjoyed this, read:

• Become a Friend of the Shadows
• Kinder Morgan, Inc. Donation to Shadows-on-the-Teche

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This partnership will help the Shadows and its staff continue their mission-driven work of sharing a more complete and inclusive history of the site with visitors from across the region and beyond, while engaging the community in programs and events such as Farm Fest and the quarterly education series.

The donation comes as Houston-based Kinder Morgan, Inc. begins major projects in Iberia Parish. Both organizations share a commitment to investing in and strengthening the communities in which they operate.

“We are deeply grateful for Kinder Morgan’s support,” said Dr. Adam Foreman, Executive Director of the Shadows. “This contribution will strengthen our ongoing efforts to preserve the site and its stories, while creating meaningful opportunities for our community.”

About Kinder Morgan, Inc.:

Kinder Morgan, Inc. (NYSE: KMI) is one of the largest energy infrastructure companies in North America. Access to reliable, affordable energy is a critical component for improving lives around the world. They are committed to providing energy transportation and storage services in a safe, efficient and environmentally responsible manner for the benefit of the people, communities and businesses they serve.

They own an interest in or operate approximately 79,000 miles of pipelines, 139 terminals, more than 700 Bcf of working natural gas storage capacity and have renewable natural gas generation capacity of approximately 6.9 Bcf per year. Kinder Morgan’s pipelines transport natural gas, refined petroleum products, crude oil, condensate, CO2, renewable fuels and other products, and their terminals store and handle various commodities including gasoline, diesel fuel, jet fuel, chemicals, metals, petroleum coke, and ethanol and other renewable fuels and feedstocks.

Learn more about their work advancing energy solutions on the lower carbon initiatives page at www.kindermorgan.com.

About Shadows-on-the-Teche:

The Shadows-on-the-Teche, National Trust for Historic Preservation site, opened to the public in 1961. Their mission is to work as stewards to preserve this historically significant former site of enslavement, to tell the true and inclusive history of the site, and to engage the community in programs that promote art, culture, and education.

The National Trust for Historic Preservation, which owns and operates the Shadows-on-the-Teche, is a private, non-profit organization. The Shadows does not receive funding from the federal, state, parish, or city government. The site supports itself through admissions, special programs and events, and donations to the Friends of the Shadows. For more information, visit their website.

(Updated 1/2/2026)

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If you enjoyed this, read:

• Become a Friend of the Shadows
• Journalism in a Changing Age Lecture

The post Kinder Morgan, Inc. Donation to Shadows-on-the-Teche appeared first on iberiatravel.com.

At Shadows-on-the-Teche, history is not just preserved, it is brought to life every day through storytelling, community events, and educational programs that foster honest reflection and connection. As the site enters a new fiscal year, they invite you to become a member of the Shadows to help sustain this vital work.

A membership supports more than the historic house. It helps preserve the stories of this site, from the lives of the enslaved families who labored here to the enduring impact of the Weeks family on our understanding of Iberia Parish’s past.

See their press release below about becoming a Friend of the Shadows.

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Shadows’ Funding:

Now, more than ever, your support is essential. In the last fiscal year, 27% of the Shadows’ revenue came from state and federal competitive grants. These funds made possible initiatives like the Louisiana Education Series, which explored topics such as the integration of University of Louisiana Lafayette, educational disparities before the Civil War, and the role of education and preservation in community healing. Grants also funded new exhibits in the Shadows Visitor Center, helping tell a more inclusive and complete story.

Many of these grant programs have been eliminated, and the few that remain are under threat or have been severely reduced. Your membership directly supports the care of the house, grounds, archives, and collections, as well as the continuation of high-quality programming for the public and school children.

Membership Inclusions:

As a member, you will enjoy

• Free admission to the Shadows-on-the-Teche
• Discounted admission to all 27 National Trust Historic Sites
• Joint membership with the National Trust for Historic Preservation
• A subscription to Preservation magazine
• Year-round discounts at the Shadows Museum Shop
• Early invitations to programs and exhibition openings

More importantly, you will be part of a community committed to exploring history with purpose.

“We hope you’ll consider joining today,” said Adam Foreman, EdD, Shadows Executive Director. “Whether you’re a longtime supporter or a new friend, your commitment ensures that Shadows-on-the-Teche remains a place where history speaks—and where it is heard.”

Join in preserving these stories. Become a member today by giving online.

About Shadows-on-the-Teche:

The Shadows-on-the-Teche, National Trust for Historic Preservation site, opened to the public in 1961. Their mission is to work as stewards to preserve this historically significant former site of enslavement, to tell the true and inclusive history of the site, and to engage the community in programs that promote art, culture, and education.

The National Trust for Historic Preservation, which owns and operates the Shadows-on-the-Teche, is a private, non-profit organization. The Shadows does not receive funding from the federal, state, parish, or city government. The site supports itself through admissions, special programs and events, and donations to the Friends of the Shadows. For more information, visit their website.

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If you enjoyed this, read:

• Journalism in a Changing Age Lecture
• “In Their Honor” Cemetery Tour

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