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211 N. Main Street, Farmerville, Louisiana
318-982-8020 [email protected] HOURS: Tue-Fri, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturdays for special events FREE ADMISSION Click button below for YouTube video - "First People of Union Parish" talk by archaeologist Jeff Girard Visit the museum's archaeology website by clicking the second button below |
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The mission of the Union Museum of History and Art is to promote an understanding of history, culture, and art, and to instill a spirit of community pride.
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Become a Friend of the Museum for 2026. Together, we achieve more!
Foraging talk slated Nov. 15
Matthew Hunter, founder of Legacy Wilderness Academy, will discuss foraging on Saturday, November 15, at 10 a.m. in the Union Museum of History and Art, 211 N. Main Street, Farmerville. Hunter’s mission is to teach individuals of the South how to harvest clean food and natural medicine from local wild plants. A resident of West Monroe, he has been foraging for over 10 years and has created several online foraging courses including Medicinal Plants of the Southeast and The Southerner’s Guide to Foraging.
This program is part of the museum’s series of programs in observance of Native American Month. For more information, call 318-982-8020.
Matthew Hunter, founder of Legacy Wilderness Academy, will discuss foraging on Saturday, November 15, at 10 a.m. in the Union Museum of History and Art, 211 N. Main Street, Farmerville. Hunter’s mission is to teach individuals of the South how to harvest clean food and natural medicine from local wild plants. A resident of West Monroe, he has been foraging for over 10 years and has created several online foraging courses including Medicinal Plants of the Southeast and The Southerner’s Guide to Foraging.
This program is part of the museum’s series of programs in observance of Native American Month. For more information, call 318-982-8020.
Wayne Abercrombie
In memory of Wayne Abercrombie--
Native American Heritage Month events planned for November
The Union Museum of History and Art is celebrating Native American Heritage Month with events and an ongoing exhibit during November. It all is in memory of Wayne Abercrombie---adventurer, archaeologist, historian, veteran, friend ---who revered Native American history and culture.
** November 1, 10 a.m. -- Dreamcatcher Workshop. Led by Amy Estep. $15 fee. Pre-register at 318-982-8020.
** November 8, 10 a.m. – “Kiowa Culture” presentation by the Billy Barham family: dances, beadwork, cultural artifacts. Special Guest will be Ellen Abercrombie, widow of Wayne Abercrombie. Amy Estep (“Gentle Winds”) and Larry Estep will make free fry bread until 2 p.m.
** November 15, 10 a.m. – “Foraging: Lessons of the Wilderness,” workshop led by Matthew Hunter, founder and instructor of Legacy Wilderness Academy. Free.
** November 17, 6 p.m. --- Discussion of two Native American-theme fiction books, The Firekeeper's Daughter and Warrior Girl Unearthed, by Angeline Boulley.
** November 22, 10 to 11 a.m. – ““The Native American Flute: How It’s Made and Played,” by Larry Estep.
11 a.m. to 12 p.m. – “Respecting Native American Cultures while Doing Archaeological Excavations,” by Steve Barmore, D’Arbonne Diggers
On display all month: * Native American-style paintings, jewelry, and dreamcatchers by Amy Estep (“Gentle Winds”)
* Ancient Native American artifacts from local excavations
* Paintings of Native American figures by Hooshang
Native American Heritage Month events planned for November
The Union Museum of History and Art is celebrating Native American Heritage Month with events and an ongoing exhibit during November. It all is in memory of Wayne Abercrombie---adventurer, archaeologist, historian, veteran, friend ---who revered Native American history and culture.
** November 1, 10 a.m. -- Dreamcatcher Workshop. Led by Amy Estep. $15 fee. Pre-register at 318-982-8020.
** November 8, 10 a.m. – “Kiowa Culture” presentation by the Billy Barham family: dances, beadwork, cultural artifacts. Special Guest will be Ellen Abercrombie, widow of Wayne Abercrombie. Amy Estep (“Gentle Winds”) and Larry Estep will make free fry bread until 2 p.m.
** November 15, 10 a.m. – “Foraging: Lessons of the Wilderness,” workshop led by Matthew Hunter, founder and instructor of Legacy Wilderness Academy. Free.
** November 17, 6 p.m. --- Discussion of two Native American-theme fiction books, The Firekeeper's Daughter and Warrior Girl Unearthed, by Angeline Boulley.
** November 22, 10 to 11 a.m. – ““The Native American Flute: How It’s Made and Played,” by Larry Estep.
11 a.m. to 12 p.m. – “Respecting Native American Cultures while Doing Archaeological Excavations,” by Steve Barmore, D’Arbonne Diggers
On display all month: * Native American-style paintings, jewelry, and dreamcatchers by Amy Estep (“Gentle Winds”)
* Ancient Native American artifacts from local excavations
* Paintings of Native American figures by Hooshang
Cooperative event with U.P. Library --
Book club to discuss Native American-theme fiction
The Union Parish Library’s Biscuit Book Club session on Monday Nov. 17, will be held in the Union Museum of History and Art, 211 N. Main Street, Farmerville. The books to be discussed are The Firekeeper's Daughter and Warrior Girl Unearthed, by Angeline Boulley. Both books are works of fiction in Native American settings with compelling characters and fast-paced action. Attendees can read the books ahead of time online on Hoopla and Cloud Library. For help in accessing the books, call the Union Parish Library at 318-368-9226.
Attendees of the Nov. 17 event will also tour the museum’s Native American artifact displays as a means of better understanding the cultural and spiritual background of the books.
The event is free and open to the public.
Book club to discuss Native American-theme fiction
The Union Parish Library’s Biscuit Book Club session on Monday Nov. 17, will be held in the Union Museum of History and Art, 211 N. Main Street, Farmerville. The books to be discussed are The Firekeeper's Daughter and Warrior Girl Unearthed, by Angeline Boulley. Both books are works of fiction in Native American settings with compelling characters and fast-paced action. Attendees can read the books ahead of time online on Hoopla and Cloud Library. For help in accessing the books, call the Union Parish Library at 318-368-9226.
Attendees of the Nov. 17 event will also tour the museum’s Native American artifact displays as a means of better understanding the cultural and spiritual background of the books.
The event is free and open to the public.
Museum is selling Christmas cards
Local children’s art adorns Christmas cards being sold by the Union Museum of History and Art at this time. Earlier this year, students at Union Parish High School, D’Arbonne Woods Charter School, Union Christian Academy, and home schools entered an art competition, “Christmas Through My Eyes.” Winning entries are printed on the cards, which can be purchased in sets of 12 for $30, or individually for $5. Proceeds will benefit the museum. For more information, call the museum at 318-982-8020.
Local children’s art adorns Christmas cards being sold by the Union Museum of History and Art at this time. Earlier this year, students at Union Parish High School, D’Arbonne Woods Charter School, Union Christian Academy, and home schools entered an art competition, “Christmas Through My Eyes.” Winning entries are printed on the cards, which can be purchased in sets of 12 for $30, or individually for $5. Proceeds will benefit the museum. For more information, call the museum at 318-982-8020.
Dinosaur memories
Whew! The "Ancient Thunder" Dino exhibit was a BLAST!! A total of 2,008 children and adults enjoyed seeing relics from the dinosaur age and visiting with Dinosaur George at the exhibit hosted by the Union Museum of History and Art, and held in the Willie Davis Recreation Center in Farmerville from Oct. 9 to 11. Thanks to everyone who came and brought children, volunteered as "dinosaurs ", and who sponsored this wonderful event!!!
We are grateful to the David B. Jones Foundation, the Walmart Foundation , Origin Bank, the Union Parish Tourist Commission, Wild Wash, and the Town of Farmerville for their generous support of this endeavor.
Want to know more about Dinosaur George, his podcast for kids, and his museum in San Antonio? Go to https://dinosaurgeorge.com/
Whew! The "Ancient Thunder" Dino exhibit was a BLAST!! A total of 2,008 children and adults enjoyed seeing relics from the dinosaur age and visiting with Dinosaur George at the exhibit hosted by the Union Museum of History and Art, and held in the Willie Davis Recreation Center in Farmerville from Oct. 9 to 11. Thanks to everyone who came and brought children, volunteered as "dinosaurs ", and who sponsored this wonderful event!!!
We are grateful to the David B. Jones Foundation, the Walmart Foundation , Origin Bank, the Union Parish Tourist Commission, Wild Wash, and the Town of Farmerville for their generous support of this endeavor.
Want to know more about Dinosaur George, his podcast for kids, and his museum in San Antonio? Go to https://dinosaurgeorge.com/
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Arts grant awarded to museum
The Union Museum of History and Art’s Bayou D’Arbonne Folk Festival was supported by a grant from the Louisiana Division of the Arts, Office of Cultural Development, Department of Culture, Recreation and Tourism, in cooperation with the Louisiana State Arts Council, as administered by the NE Louisiana Arts Council. Funding has also been provided by the National Endowment for the Arts. |
Second YouTube video launched in "Eyewitness to History" series
Union Museum of History and Art is creating filmed interviews with local people sharing their unique experiences in the "Eyewitness to History" series. Each video is uploaded to the museum's YouTube channel and kept in the museum's digital archives. The second video just released features Brenda Hobson Abercrombie, current member of the Union Parish Police Jury, and Doris Redden Kyle Russell, who served on the Police Jury in the 1960s and '70s. They are the only women ever elected to the Union Parish Police Jury.
In the video, the two discuss why they entered public service, their challenges, and accomplishments. To view the video, CLICK HERE
The first interview, with 102 year-old Mrs. Ida Belle Albritton, is also viewable on the museum's You Tube channel. Mrs. Albritton recalls her experiences as a young bride and mother during World War II, and other experiences in her lifetime.
Videographer for the series is Carter Carroll of ReCollect Media, which specializes in documentary filmmaking.
Union Museum of History and Art is creating filmed interviews with local people sharing their unique experiences in the "Eyewitness to History" series. Each video is uploaded to the museum's YouTube channel and kept in the museum's digital archives. The second video just released features Brenda Hobson Abercrombie, current member of the Union Parish Police Jury, and Doris Redden Kyle Russell, who served on the Police Jury in the 1960s and '70s. They are the only women ever elected to the Union Parish Police Jury.
In the video, the two discuss why they entered public service, their challenges, and accomplishments. To view the video, CLICK HERE
The first interview, with 102 year-old Mrs. Ida Belle Albritton, is also viewable on the museum's You Tube channel. Mrs. Albritton recalls her experiences as a young bride and mother during World War II, and other experiences in her lifetime.
Videographer for the series is Carter Carroll of ReCollect Media, which specializes in documentary filmmaking.
Doris Russell (left) and Brenda Abercrombie at the conclusion of their video interview in June 2024
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Ida Belle Albritton, being filmed for the "Eyewitness to History" series
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Together, we achieve more! --
Give a gift to your community
Union Museum of History and Art - Discovery Place depends on the public for support in order to continue serving the people of this community. Now that the museum has purchased its own building, its expenses are even greater (think insurance and maintenance).
We ask that you give a gift to your community by making a tax-deductible “Friends of the Museum” donation at any of these suggested levels, or in the amount of your choice.
$100 Bronze
$250 Silver
$500 Gold
$1000 Platinum
$1500 Champion
$3000 Patron
$5000 Benefactor
You may send a check to the museum at 211 N. Main St., Farmerville, LA 71241. OR, to make your donation via credit card, click on the red “DONATE” button at upper right of this page. THANK YOU!
Give a gift to your community
Union Museum of History and Art - Discovery Place depends on the public for support in order to continue serving the people of this community. Now that the museum has purchased its own building, its expenses are even greater (think insurance and maintenance).
We ask that you give a gift to your community by making a tax-deductible “Friends of the Museum” donation at any of these suggested levels, or in the amount of your choice.
$100 Bronze
$250 Silver
$500 Gold
$1000 Platinum
$1500 Champion
$3000 Patron
$5000 Benefactor
You may send a check to the museum at 211 N. Main St., Farmerville, LA 71241. OR, to make your donation via credit card, click on the red “DONATE” button at upper right of this page. THANK YOU!
The Union Museum of History and Art's building purchase was finalized on August 28. From left are building owners Kelly and Paul Coburn, museum board president Mary Barrios, board member and attorney Dawn Frasier, and board secretary Richard Royal.
"Landmark achievement," says director --
Museum purchases building in Farmerville
The board of directors of the Union Museum of History and Art has finalized purchase of the building in which it has resided since 2020. Building owners Paul and Kelly Coburn transferred title of the facility at 211 N. Main Street, Farmerville, to the non-profit museum organization on Thursday, August 28. The majority of the $200,000 required for the purchase was provided by local donors. The remainder was provided by state Capital Outlay funds.
“What a landmark achievement in the life of our museum: we are now the proud owners of the building we call home! This moment has been years in the making, and it stands as a testament to the unwavering dedication of our community,” says museum director Vickie Wheelis. “We extend our deepest gratitude to State Senator Stewart Cathey and State Representative Chris Turner, who secured the capital outlay funding that made this dream a reality. Their belief in our mission helped pave the way for this new chapter,” she says. “To the many donors, volunteers, and local champions who have stood by us—thank you. Your generosity, encouragement, and steadfast support have lifted us through every challenge and celebration. This building is more than bricks and mortar; it is a symbol of what we can accomplish together. Here’s to the future of history, art, and community—rooted right here in Farmerville.”
Museum purchases building in Farmerville
The board of directors of the Union Museum of History and Art has finalized purchase of the building in which it has resided since 2020. Building owners Paul and Kelly Coburn transferred title of the facility at 211 N. Main Street, Farmerville, to the non-profit museum organization on Thursday, August 28. The majority of the $200,000 required for the purchase was provided by local donors. The remainder was provided by state Capital Outlay funds.
“What a landmark achievement in the life of our museum: we are now the proud owners of the building we call home! This moment has been years in the making, and it stands as a testament to the unwavering dedication of our community,” says museum director Vickie Wheelis. “We extend our deepest gratitude to State Senator Stewart Cathey and State Representative Chris Turner, who secured the capital outlay funding that made this dream a reality. Their belief in our mission helped pave the way for this new chapter,” she says. “To the many donors, volunteers, and local champions who have stood by us—thank you. Your generosity, encouragement, and steadfast support have lifted us through every challenge and celebration. This building is more than bricks and mortar; it is a symbol of what we can accomplish together. Here’s to the future of history, art, and community—rooted right here in Farmerville.”
UPCOMING EVENTS
November 15, 10 a.m. – “Foraging: Lessons of the Wilderness,” workshop led by Matthew Hunter, founder and instructor of Legacy Wilderness Academy. Free.
November 22, 10 to 11 a.m. – “Making and Playing the Native American Flute,” led by Larry Estep. Free class.
11 a.m. to 12 p.m. – “Respecting Native American Cultures while Doing Archaeological Excavations,” by Steve Barmore, D’Arbonne Diggers
November 15, 10 a.m. – “Foraging: Lessons of the Wilderness,” workshop led by Matthew Hunter, founder and instructor of Legacy Wilderness Academy. Free.
November 22, 10 to 11 a.m. – “Making and Playing the Native American Flute,” led by Larry Estep. Free class.
11 a.m. to 12 p.m. – “Respecting Native American Cultures while Doing Archaeological Excavations,” by Steve Barmore, D’Arbonne Diggers
Board of Directors, 2025
Union Museum of History and Art
Mary Barrios - chair
Dawn Frasier - vice chair
Pam Gale Hallman
Ramsey Hallman
Glenda Henderson
Lesa W. Lawrence, Ph.D.
Richard Royal - secretary
Jamie Taylor - treasurer
Brittany Unkel
Museum Director
Vickie L. Wheelis, Ed.D.
Union Museum of History and Art
Mary Barrios - chair
Dawn Frasier - vice chair
Pam Gale Hallman
Ramsey Hallman
Glenda Henderson
Lesa W. Lawrence, Ph.D.
Richard Royal - secretary
Jamie Taylor - treasurer
Brittany Unkel
Museum Director
Vickie L. Wheelis, Ed.D.
"First Friends" of the Museum
Sincere thanks go to these individuals and organizations that launched the museum in 2014
by underwriting the gallery construction expenses.
The Lions Club of Farmerville - Lighting System Sponsor
Union General Hospital - Community Showcase Sponsor
Bruce and Cindy Hampton - Large Display Panel Sponsor (2)
Plum Creek -- Lead Flooring Sponsor
Architecture +, Monroe, LA - architectural rendering
The Carr Family - Fred, Tommy, Jeffery, Tinnie, and Deanna -- Large Display Panel Sponsor
Community Trust Bank (now Origin Bank) -- Large Display Panel Sponsor
The Futch Family - Alan, Lance,Todd, and Jimmye Carol -- Large Display Panel Sponsor
The Gazette -- Large Display Panel Sponsor
Steve and Jean Jones -- Flooring Sponsor
Kilpatrick Funeral Homes -- Large Display Panel Sponsor
Nancy Love -- Large Display Panel Sponsor
Read Lumber and Supply -- Flooring Sponsor
Jerry and Joan Taylor -- Flooring Sponsor
Brittany and Steve Unkel -- Large Display Panel Sponsor
Ricky and Debbie Albritton -- Display Panel Sponsor
The Banner -- Display Panel Sponsor
John and Alana Belton -- Display Panel Sponsor
Dr. Clyde Brashier -- Display Panel Sponsor
Town of Farmerville -- Display Panel Sponsor
Lum and Dottie Farr -- Display Panel Sponsor
The Museum is forever indebted to the Union Parish Chamber of Commerce, which began the museum idea as a special study project in 2011. The Chamber's Board of Directors enabled the concept to become a reality, and launched the Union Museum of History and Art as an independent 501(c)3 non-profit organization. For its first five years, the Museum was housed in the Chamber of Commerce building. In March 2020, it moved into the building at 211 N. Main St. , Farmerville.
Sincere thanks go to these individuals and organizations that launched the museum in 2014
by underwriting the gallery construction expenses.
The Lions Club of Farmerville - Lighting System Sponsor
Union General Hospital - Community Showcase Sponsor
Bruce and Cindy Hampton - Large Display Panel Sponsor (2)
Plum Creek -- Lead Flooring Sponsor
Architecture +, Monroe, LA - architectural rendering
The Carr Family - Fred, Tommy, Jeffery, Tinnie, and Deanna -- Large Display Panel Sponsor
Community Trust Bank (now Origin Bank) -- Large Display Panel Sponsor
The Futch Family - Alan, Lance,Todd, and Jimmye Carol -- Large Display Panel Sponsor
The Gazette -- Large Display Panel Sponsor
Steve and Jean Jones -- Flooring Sponsor
Kilpatrick Funeral Homes -- Large Display Panel Sponsor
Nancy Love -- Large Display Panel Sponsor
Read Lumber and Supply -- Flooring Sponsor
Jerry and Joan Taylor -- Flooring Sponsor
Brittany and Steve Unkel -- Large Display Panel Sponsor
Ricky and Debbie Albritton -- Display Panel Sponsor
The Banner -- Display Panel Sponsor
John and Alana Belton -- Display Panel Sponsor
Dr. Clyde Brashier -- Display Panel Sponsor
Town of Farmerville -- Display Panel Sponsor
Lum and Dottie Farr -- Display Panel Sponsor
The Museum is forever indebted to the Union Parish Chamber of Commerce, which began the museum idea as a special study project in 2011. The Chamber's Board of Directors enabled the concept to become a reality, and launched the Union Museum of History and Art as an independent 501(c)3 non-profit organization. For its first five years, the Museum was housed in the Chamber of Commerce building. In March 2020, it moved into the building at 211 N. Main St. , Farmerville.