211 N. Main Street, Farmerville, Louisiana
318-982-8020 unionmuseum@gmail.com HOURS: 1 to 5 p.m. Tuesday-Friday 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday FREE ADMISSION Click button below for YouTube video - "First People of Union Parish" talk by archaeologist Jeff Girard |
Weekly drawings for gift cards---
Extreme sports exhibit wows visitors
“Beyond Human Limits,” an action-packed ride through the world of extreme sports, opened May 18 in the Union Museum of History and Art—Discovery Place, 211 N. Main Street in Farmerville, and has wowed more than 100 visitors to date. This highly interactive exhibition, developed and produced by Science North in partnership with the Ontario Science Centre, brings visitors inside the minds and bodies of extreme athletes pursuing wingsuit flying, ice and rock climbing, free diving and many more high adventure sports. Admission is free.
Hours are 1 to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Friday, and 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday. There are weekly drawings for gift cards from Dick’s Sporting Goods.
The local exhibit will run through August 30, and is made possible by support from the Louisiana Office of Tourism, Origin Bank, Anytime Fitness of Farmerville, and Dick’s Sporting Goods.
To book a large group, call 318-982-8020.
“Beyond Human Limits” has toured sites throughout the U.S. and Canada, giving visitors a chance to engage in several physical, multimedia and creative challenges through videos, virtual reality experience, and hands-on features. They also learn from athletes that participate in these extreme activities about how they have persevered through failures and challenges in their sports.
Extreme sports exhibit wows visitors
“Beyond Human Limits,” an action-packed ride through the world of extreme sports, opened May 18 in the Union Museum of History and Art—Discovery Place, 211 N. Main Street in Farmerville, and has wowed more than 100 visitors to date. This highly interactive exhibition, developed and produced by Science North in partnership with the Ontario Science Centre, brings visitors inside the minds and bodies of extreme athletes pursuing wingsuit flying, ice and rock climbing, free diving and many more high adventure sports. Admission is free.
Hours are 1 to 5 p.m., Tuesday through Friday, and 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday. There are weekly drawings for gift cards from Dick’s Sporting Goods.
The local exhibit will run through August 30, and is made possible by support from the Louisiana Office of Tourism, Origin Bank, Anytime Fitness of Farmerville, and Dick’s Sporting Goods.
To book a large group, call 318-982-8020.
“Beyond Human Limits” has toured sites throughout the U.S. and Canada, giving visitors a chance to engage in several physical, multimedia and creative challenges through videos, virtual reality experience, and hands-on features. They also learn from athletes that participate in these extreme activities about how they have persevered through failures and challenges in their sports.

Runner Shelley Sparks to lead clinic June 24
Ultra-runner Shelley Sparks eats mountains for breakfast. Her long list of alpine trail conquests includes Pikes Peak marathon (26 miles) twice, eight 100-milers, three 90-mile stage races, and numerous races with distances of 50k to 100k. She currently is training for a 100k ultra-marathon in Colorado next month.
Sparks will share her experiences and tips for success on Saturday, June 24, at 10 a.m. in the Union Museum of History and Art-Discovery Place, 211 N. Main Street, Farmerville. The hour and-a-half clinic is entitled, “Becoming a Runner: What Does It Take?” and will be of interest to anyone of any age who is a runner, is thinking about taking up the sport of running, or who simply admire such athletes. She will discuss how to prepare physically, mentally, and nutritionally.
To reserve a spot for the clinic. Call the museum at 318-982-8020. Attendance is free. Door prizes will be awarded.
Sparks is a high school health teacher at D’Arbonne Woods Charter School; over the past 20 years she has coached K-12 PE, track and field, cross country, and volleyball. She and her husband James have two grown children and a one year-old grandson. James also is her “crew” during her long-distance runs, many of which span 24 hours or more.
This event is a feature of the museum’s current exhibit, “Beyond Human Limits,” which is on loan from the Science North museum in Canada until August 30. Sponsors of the local showing are the Louisiana Office of Tourism, Origin Bank, Anytime Fitness of Farmerville, and Dick’s Sporting Goods.
Ultra-runner Shelley Sparks eats mountains for breakfast. Her long list of alpine trail conquests includes Pikes Peak marathon (26 miles) twice, eight 100-milers, three 90-mile stage races, and numerous races with distances of 50k to 100k. She currently is training for a 100k ultra-marathon in Colorado next month.
Sparks will share her experiences and tips for success on Saturday, June 24, at 10 a.m. in the Union Museum of History and Art-Discovery Place, 211 N. Main Street, Farmerville. The hour and-a-half clinic is entitled, “Becoming a Runner: What Does It Take?” and will be of interest to anyone of any age who is a runner, is thinking about taking up the sport of running, or who simply admire such athletes. She will discuss how to prepare physically, mentally, and nutritionally.
To reserve a spot for the clinic. Call the museum at 318-982-8020. Attendance is free. Door prizes will be awarded.
Sparks is a high school health teacher at D’Arbonne Woods Charter School; over the past 20 years she has coached K-12 PE, track and field, cross country, and volleyball. She and her husband James have two grown children and a one year-old grandson. James also is her “crew” during her long-distance runs, many of which span 24 hours or more.
This event is a feature of the museum’s current exhibit, “Beyond Human Limits,” which is on loan from the Science North museum in Canada until August 30. Sponsors of the local showing are the Louisiana Office of Tourism, Origin Bank, Anytime Fitness of Farmerville, and Dick’s Sporting Goods.
UPCOMING FOLKCRAFT CLASSES
Union Museum of History and Art is proud to present its 2023 series of Folkcraft Classes, designed to keep alive the skills and art techniques practiced by our forebears. To enroll, call 318-982-8020 or email unionmuseum@gmail.com
Class size is limited. All materials provided.
June 10, 12 to 3 p.m. -- "Handmade Paper and Pressed Flowers" led by Kelsey Mardis and Heather Gill. $10
July 8, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. -- "Introduction to Leatherworking" led by Ron Butler (aka Buckskin Billy) $15
Union Museum of History and Art is proud to present its 2023 series of Folkcraft Classes, designed to keep alive the skills and art techniques practiced by our forebears. To enroll, call 318-982-8020 or email unionmuseum@gmail.com
Class size is limited. All materials provided.
June 10, 12 to 3 p.m. -- "Handmade Paper and Pressed Flowers" led by Kelsey Mardis and Heather Gill. $10
July 8, 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. -- "Introduction to Leatherworking" led by Ron Butler (aka Buckskin Billy) $15

Art class for teens slated in Union Museum
Area youth ages 12 to 18 have the opportunity to learn sketching from artist David Y. Taylor in a two-night class offered at the Union Museum of History and Art--Discovery Place. The sessions will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. on July 11 and 13. The fee of $30 includes all materials. To enroll, call 318-982-8020 or email unionmuseum@gmail.com. The museum is located at 211 N. Main Street, Farmerville.
Taylor has received several awards for his artworks, primarily his sketches of family and friends. He received his early art training from Larce Holder and later at the University of Louisiana-Monroe. He has taught art classes at Union Christian Academy, the Union Museum, and local churches.
Area youth ages 12 to 18 have the opportunity to learn sketching from artist David Y. Taylor in a two-night class offered at the Union Museum of History and Art--Discovery Place. The sessions will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. on July 11 and 13. The fee of $30 includes all materials. To enroll, call 318-982-8020 or email unionmuseum@gmail.com. The museum is located at 211 N. Main Street, Farmerville.
Taylor has received several awards for his artworks, primarily his sketches of family and friends. He received his early art training from Larce Holder and later at the University of Louisiana-Monroe. He has taught art classes at Union Christian Academy, the Union Museum, and local churches.
Thanks, Union Parish!
An estimated crowd of some 400 people enjoyed Folk Life Day, the celebration of music, dance, food, and handcrafts held on May 6. Union Museum of History and Art thanks all our sponsors, participants, musician, dancers, vendors, and everyone who attended the festival!
Volunteers with Union Parish Community Outreach had a kids’ art tent where youngsters created their own crafts.
Food vendors offered a bounty of festival favorites including boudin balls, fried chicken, tamales, tacos, slaw dogs, and snow cones. Members of the Christian Motorcycle Association gave out free ice water.
Mike Duty was emcee for all Haywagon Stage performances: Holmesville Baptist Church gospel group, folk dancers from The Dance Studio of Union Parish, the Piney Hills Bluegrass Band, and pan drummer Margie Albritton
Folk Life Day was made possible by these generous supporters:
Haywagon Stage Sponsor: the Town of Farmerville
Barnraisers: the Walmart Foundation, Union Parish Farm Bureau, Sheriff Dusty Gates, and Bare Necessities Luxury Mobile Restroom
Partners: A Printshop, Byrnes Mechanical Contractors, Crow’s Furniture and Appliance, Thomas Nursery and Feed, and Union Glass and Mirror.
The museum also is grateful to these great community friends: The Dance Studio of Union Parish, the Union Parish Library, the Young Adult Class of Farmerville Methodist Church, Union Parish Sheriff’s Office, Marion State Bank, Origin Bank, Farmerville Police Department, Union Parish Community Outreach, Susan Edwards, Paula Davis, David Taylor, Carol Jo Johnston, Mary Barrios, and a cadre of other supportive volunteers.
An estimated crowd of some 400 people enjoyed Folk Life Day, the celebration of music, dance, food, and handcrafts held on May 6. Union Museum of History and Art thanks all our sponsors, participants, musician, dancers, vendors, and everyone who attended the festival!
Volunteers with Union Parish Community Outreach had a kids’ art tent where youngsters created their own crafts.
Food vendors offered a bounty of festival favorites including boudin balls, fried chicken, tamales, tacos, slaw dogs, and snow cones. Members of the Christian Motorcycle Association gave out free ice water.
Mike Duty was emcee for all Haywagon Stage performances: Holmesville Baptist Church gospel group, folk dancers from The Dance Studio of Union Parish, the Piney Hills Bluegrass Band, and pan drummer Margie Albritton
Folk Life Day was made possible by these generous supporters:
Haywagon Stage Sponsor: the Town of Farmerville
Barnraisers: the Walmart Foundation, Union Parish Farm Bureau, Sheriff Dusty Gates, and Bare Necessities Luxury Mobile Restroom
Partners: A Printshop, Byrnes Mechanical Contractors, Crow’s Furniture and Appliance, Thomas Nursery and Feed, and Union Glass and Mirror.
The museum also is grateful to these great community friends: The Dance Studio of Union Parish, the Union Parish Library, the Young Adult Class of Farmerville Methodist Church, Union Parish Sheriff’s Office, Marion State Bank, Origin Bank, Farmerville Police Department, Union Parish Community Outreach, Susan Edwards, Paula Davis, David Taylor, Carol Jo Johnston, Mary Barrios, and a cadre of other supportive volunteers.

"Tomb of the Unknown Soldier" exhibit inspires hundreds
Union Museum of History and Art is proud to have had the opportunity to host the magnificent "Tomb of the Unknown Soldier replica" exhibit, provided by The Exchange Club of Rome, Georgia, from Oct. 24 to 27. A record 475 visitors came to see the Tomb replica and pay their respects to all veterans during the four days.
We want to thank everyone who attended --- visitors make any museum come alive!
A huge thanks to our generous sponsors: The Thomas H. and Mayme P. Scott Foundation, the Albritton-Carter Post 5442 VFW, and Kilpatrick's Funeral Home. And more thanks to the VFW men who stood guard at the Tomb replica day and night while it was in the Museum.
And more thanks to the five generous volunteers from the Exchange Club who brought the Tomb replica here: Bill King, Howard Jackson, Joe Wade, Joyce Johnson, and John Fortune. They gave every visitor a detailed talk about the actual Tomb located in Arlington National Cemetery, its meaning, and its significance to all Americans. And more thanks to the local fishing guides who took four of our Georgia visitors out on Lake D'Arbonne on Wednesday to catch a great mess of fish: Steve Adams, Bradley Isaac, Shane Hodge, and William Whetstone. And then more thanks to restaurateur Tommy Sevin who cooked up all those fish for the guests and VFW guys, AND added gumbo, hush puppies, and fries.
As the Tomb convoy headed into Louisiana from their home in Georgia on Sunday, Oct. 23, they were escorted by law enforcement all the way into Farmerville. A big thanks to the Louisiana State Police, the sheriffs of Madison, Richland, Ouachita, Lincoln parishes, and, of course Union Parish Sheriff Dusty Gates for your splendid procession!
Union Museum of History and Art is proud to have had the opportunity to host the magnificent "Tomb of the Unknown Soldier replica" exhibit, provided by The Exchange Club of Rome, Georgia, from Oct. 24 to 27. A record 475 visitors came to see the Tomb replica and pay their respects to all veterans during the four days.
We want to thank everyone who attended --- visitors make any museum come alive!
A huge thanks to our generous sponsors: The Thomas H. and Mayme P. Scott Foundation, the Albritton-Carter Post 5442 VFW, and Kilpatrick's Funeral Home. And more thanks to the VFW men who stood guard at the Tomb replica day and night while it was in the Museum.
And more thanks to the five generous volunteers from the Exchange Club who brought the Tomb replica here: Bill King, Howard Jackson, Joe Wade, Joyce Johnson, and John Fortune. They gave every visitor a detailed talk about the actual Tomb located in Arlington National Cemetery, its meaning, and its significance to all Americans. And more thanks to the local fishing guides who took four of our Georgia visitors out on Lake D'Arbonne on Wednesday to catch a great mess of fish: Steve Adams, Bradley Isaac, Shane Hodge, and William Whetstone. And then more thanks to restaurateur Tommy Sevin who cooked up all those fish for the guests and VFW guys, AND added gumbo, hush puppies, and fries.
As the Tomb convoy headed into Louisiana from their home in Georgia on Sunday, Oct. 23, they were escorted by law enforcement all the way into Farmerville. A big thanks to the Louisiana State Police, the sheriffs of Madison, Richland, Ouachita, Lincoln parishes, and, of course Union Parish Sheriff Dusty Gates for your splendid procession!

International Tasting Tour a smash hit!
More than 300 people enjoyed an evening of fabulous multicultural food, music, and dance at the International Tasting Tour on September 22, in the Willie Davis Recreation Center in Farmerville. This event shared cultures of foreign-born people living here in our community, and raised $23,000 to help the Union Museum of History and Art achieve its goal of purchasing and improving its building at 211 N. Main Street, Farmerville.
Those of us who embrace the mission of the Union Museum of History and Art are deeply grateful to Claudia Wade, chairman, and her awesome team of volunteers! Kudos also to the generous title sponsor Union General Hospital, and all the other corporate and individual sponsors, the talented chefs, the fabulous entertainers, the silent auction donors, the “It’s a Girl Thing” volunteers, the Rec Center crew and Farmerville firefighters who helped decorate, and all who attended the International Tasting Tour. We are already making plans for next year!
Our distinguished master of ceremonies was Louisiana Supreme Court Justice Jay McCallum.
ITT planning team members were Claudia Wade, chair, Jean Jones, representing the Union Museum of History and Art, Michelle & Rafael Ayala, Mary Barrios, Beth Becton, Wendy Comfort, Janice Gates, Glenda Henderson, Adam Lewis, Wren Lewis, Junie Rowell, Alice Whitman, Amie Smith, and Noshaba Shahid.
UNIVERSAL TITLE SPONSOR of this event was Union General Hospital.
GLOBAL SPONSORS were The Gazette, Enviro Services, and Bayou Portable Buildings.
INTERNATIONAL SPONSORS were Benoit Ford, the Town of Farmerville, Foster Farms, Legacy of Farmerville, and Origin Bank.
COUNTRY SPONSORS were Byrnes Mechanical, Kilpatrick Funeral Home, Marion State Bank, Communihealth, Stateline Liquor, Judy Auger, Bernie and Alisa Lear, Taylor & Wilkes CPA, Paramount Healthcare, Reeves Memorial Medical Center, and Hampton Law.
CITY SPONSORS were Dawn Frasier, John Belton DA, Junie Rowell & Alice Whitman, LifePhases Consulting, Wendy Comfort & Jesus Castillo, Couture Tee, Rep. Chris Turner, the Town of Bernice, Joseph A. Cusimano Jr. Law Corp., Kent Halley Farms, Elvin & Patricia Futch, Downsville Community Charter School, Sheriff Dusty Gates, Yates and Booth Realty, and the Union Parish Voters League.
Our special thanks also to our FOOD SPONSORS-Select Chefs: Paul Murray of Mamoo's (representing China), Wendy Comfort (Costa Rica), Silvia Orozco (El Salvador), Dylan Mendoza and Matt Fontenot of Legacy of Farmerville (Spain), Rosy Schaad de Requena and Mary Barrios (Guatemala), The Spice and Tea Exchange, Ricky Albritton (Italy), Michelle & Rafael Ayala of Reyes Tacos (Mexico), El Jarrito (Mexico), Noshaba Shahid (Pakistan), Junie Rowell , Alice Whitman and Amie Smith (The Philippines), Giai Byrnes (Vietnam), and Ibrahim Abualhaj of Haj's Kitchen (Jordan). In addition, several foreign exchange students with the regional Ayusa program prepared desserts from their home countries: Brazil, Japan, Germany, Italy, Chile, Israel, and France.
We also thank Alan Futch of the Dean of Flowers for being the FLOWER ARRANGEMENTS SPONSOR and providing floral decor.
Special thanks also to Latina singer Kennya Padron who gave a gorgeous headliner concert. Thanks also to Angie Cusimano Russell and her dancers from The Dance Studio of Union Parish, who performed an unforgettable Chinese dragon dance during the Tasting Tour. And thanks to The Red River Pipes and Drums bagpipe group that performed charming Scottish music.
Rev. Tommy Carr delivered the invocation. Lily Davis sang the National Anthem and Marisol Ramirez who recently became a U.S. citizen led us in the Pledge of Allegiance.
Evalyn Ormond was the lucky winner from the 800+ entrants in the raffle for the 8' x 12' portable building donated by Bayou Portable Buildings in Monroe. Proceeds will benefit the Union Museum of History and Art and the Union Arts Council. Thanks to Keith Burford for donating the building.
More than 300 people enjoyed an evening of fabulous multicultural food, music, and dance at the International Tasting Tour on September 22, in the Willie Davis Recreation Center in Farmerville. This event shared cultures of foreign-born people living here in our community, and raised $23,000 to help the Union Museum of History and Art achieve its goal of purchasing and improving its building at 211 N. Main Street, Farmerville.
Those of us who embrace the mission of the Union Museum of History and Art are deeply grateful to Claudia Wade, chairman, and her awesome team of volunteers! Kudos also to the generous title sponsor Union General Hospital, and all the other corporate and individual sponsors, the talented chefs, the fabulous entertainers, the silent auction donors, the “It’s a Girl Thing” volunteers, the Rec Center crew and Farmerville firefighters who helped decorate, and all who attended the International Tasting Tour. We are already making plans for next year!
Our distinguished master of ceremonies was Louisiana Supreme Court Justice Jay McCallum.
ITT planning team members were Claudia Wade, chair, Jean Jones, representing the Union Museum of History and Art, Michelle & Rafael Ayala, Mary Barrios, Beth Becton, Wendy Comfort, Janice Gates, Glenda Henderson, Adam Lewis, Wren Lewis, Junie Rowell, Alice Whitman, Amie Smith, and Noshaba Shahid.
UNIVERSAL TITLE SPONSOR of this event was Union General Hospital.
GLOBAL SPONSORS were The Gazette, Enviro Services, and Bayou Portable Buildings.
INTERNATIONAL SPONSORS were Benoit Ford, the Town of Farmerville, Foster Farms, Legacy of Farmerville, and Origin Bank.
COUNTRY SPONSORS were Byrnes Mechanical, Kilpatrick Funeral Home, Marion State Bank, Communihealth, Stateline Liquor, Judy Auger, Bernie and Alisa Lear, Taylor & Wilkes CPA, Paramount Healthcare, Reeves Memorial Medical Center, and Hampton Law.
CITY SPONSORS were Dawn Frasier, John Belton DA, Junie Rowell & Alice Whitman, LifePhases Consulting, Wendy Comfort & Jesus Castillo, Couture Tee, Rep. Chris Turner, the Town of Bernice, Joseph A. Cusimano Jr. Law Corp., Kent Halley Farms, Elvin & Patricia Futch, Downsville Community Charter School, Sheriff Dusty Gates, Yates and Booth Realty, and the Union Parish Voters League.
Our special thanks also to our FOOD SPONSORS-Select Chefs: Paul Murray of Mamoo's (representing China), Wendy Comfort (Costa Rica), Silvia Orozco (El Salvador), Dylan Mendoza and Matt Fontenot of Legacy of Farmerville (Spain), Rosy Schaad de Requena and Mary Barrios (Guatemala), The Spice and Tea Exchange, Ricky Albritton (Italy), Michelle & Rafael Ayala of Reyes Tacos (Mexico), El Jarrito (Mexico), Noshaba Shahid (Pakistan), Junie Rowell , Alice Whitman and Amie Smith (The Philippines), Giai Byrnes (Vietnam), and Ibrahim Abualhaj of Haj's Kitchen (Jordan). In addition, several foreign exchange students with the regional Ayusa program prepared desserts from their home countries: Brazil, Japan, Germany, Italy, Chile, Israel, and France.
We also thank Alan Futch of the Dean of Flowers for being the FLOWER ARRANGEMENTS SPONSOR and providing floral decor.
Special thanks also to Latina singer Kennya Padron who gave a gorgeous headliner concert. Thanks also to Angie Cusimano Russell and her dancers from The Dance Studio of Union Parish, who performed an unforgettable Chinese dragon dance during the Tasting Tour. And thanks to The Red River Pipes and Drums bagpipe group that performed charming Scottish music.
Rev. Tommy Carr delivered the invocation. Lily Davis sang the National Anthem and Marisol Ramirez who recently became a U.S. citizen led us in the Pledge of Allegiance.
Evalyn Ormond was the lucky winner from the 800+ entrants in the raffle for the 8' x 12' portable building donated by Bayou Portable Buildings in Monroe. Proceeds will benefit the Union Museum of History and Art and the Union Arts Council. Thanks to Keith Burford for donating the building.

"Building for the Future" --
Museum seeks pledges for capital campaign
Union Museum of History and Art needs to raise $200,000 over the next three years in order to purchase the building it now occupies at 211 N. Main Street. Building owners Paul and Kelly Coburn are generously allowing the museum to reside here rent-free for five years (started early in 2020). BUT, early in 2025, the museum must be prepared to buy this building...or vacate it.
SO, we are asking YOU and other enthusiasts to help keep the museum a permanent institution in Union Parish. This museum is a 501(c)3 non-profit charity, so all donations are tax-deductible to the full extent of the law.
In the "Building for the Future" capital campaign, we are asking people to make a pledge of support from now until the end of 2024. Pledge payments can be made monthly, quarterly, or annually...any way you like. Payments can be set up through your bank or credit card or you can send checks.
SPECIAL FEATURE: Those contributing $750 or more to the capital campaign will be honored with a beautiful inscribed tile on the "Wall of Gratitude" to be permanently mounted near the front door of the museum. These tiles will be either 8" x 8" ivory marble or black granite, or 4" x 8" ivory marble (depending on donation amount). YOU will choose the wording for your tile.
If you are interested in this opportunity, please call the museum office at 318-982-8020. We thank you in advance for your support. Generations into the future will call you blessed.
Museum seeks pledges for capital campaign
Union Museum of History and Art needs to raise $200,000 over the next three years in order to purchase the building it now occupies at 211 N. Main Street. Building owners Paul and Kelly Coburn are generously allowing the museum to reside here rent-free for five years (started early in 2020). BUT, early in 2025, the museum must be prepared to buy this building...or vacate it.
SO, we are asking YOU and other enthusiasts to help keep the museum a permanent institution in Union Parish. This museum is a 501(c)3 non-profit charity, so all donations are tax-deductible to the full extent of the law.
In the "Building for the Future" capital campaign, we are asking people to make a pledge of support from now until the end of 2024. Pledge payments can be made monthly, quarterly, or annually...any way you like. Payments can be set up through your bank or credit card or you can send checks.
SPECIAL FEATURE: Those contributing $750 or more to the capital campaign will be honored with a beautiful inscribed tile on the "Wall of Gratitude" to be permanently mounted near the front door of the museum. These tiles will be either 8" x 8" ivory marble or black granite, or 4" x 8" ivory marble (depending on donation amount). YOU will choose the wording for your tile.
If you are interested in this opportunity, please call the museum office at 318-982-8020. We thank you in advance for your support. Generations into the future will call you blessed.

Museum launches First People of Union Parish gallery and the James Harty Memorial Archaeology Research Center
The “First People of Union Parish” permanent exhibit and the James Harty Memorial Archaeology Research Center were officially opened Saturday, June 26, with a festive open house in the Union Museum of History and Art in Farmerville. Some 170 people gathered on Archaeology Day to witness the ribbon-cutting by Lottie Harty and enjoy the many activities. A highlight of the day was an illustrated talk by archaeologist-author Jeffrey Girard, who discussed the earliest inhabitants of this uplands region, especially the Caddo cultures from the west and Lower Mississippian cultures from the east.
Larry Pixley of Bernice demonstrated the many complex tool-making techniques used by prehistoric cultures. Amy Estep prepared Indian fry bread for the crowd and Larry Estep performed music with his Indian flute. Several local enthusiasts brought in their archaeological “finds” for Girard and other experts to identify.
The research center was named in honor of James Harty of Bernice, as he was a devoted avocational archaeologist, teacher, and coach. He heavily researched several prehistoric Indian sites in Union Parish and beyond, with four of his articles published in Louisiana Archaeology magazine. “Coach Harty was an enthusiastic and highly respected researcher in the field of archaeology,” says Tom “Tuffy” Fields, coordinator of the museum’s “First People” collection. “We miss Coach. So we hope this research center will honor his memory.”
The exhibit currently includes artifacts and other items from the James Harty Family, Cal Colvin, David Chrisman, Wayne Abercrombie, Carol Jo Johnston, Larry Pixley, Michael Christian, Gene BeDoit, Tom Fields, Richard Wolf, and Jean and Steve Jones. Artist Hooshang Khorasani has six large paintings of plains Indians on display. David Taylor’s mural, “Day’s Work,” which will be on permanent display, depicts Caddo Indian house-building and pottery-making. The museum is grateful to these entities for making the day possible: Tom and Bonnie Fields, Claiborne Electric Operation Round Up, the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities, and the National Endowment for the Humanities. The views, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this program do not necessarily represent those of either the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities or the National Endowment for the Humanities.
The public is invited to visit the “First People of Union Parish” permanent exhibit, in addition to other rotating and permanent displays. Admission is free. Hours: 1 to 5 p.m. Tuesday-Friday; 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday. For more information, call 318-982-8020 or visit www.unionmuseumofhistoryandart.org.
The “First People of Union Parish” permanent exhibit and the James Harty Memorial Archaeology Research Center were officially opened Saturday, June 26, with a festive open house in the Union Museum of History and Art in Farmerville. Some 170 people gathered on Archaeology Day to witness the ribbon-cutting by Lottie Harty and enjoy the many activities. A highlight of the day was an illustrated talk by archaeologist-author Jeffrey Girard, who discussed the earliest inhabitants of this uplands region, especially the Caddo cultures from the west and Lower Mississippian cultures from the east.
Larry Pixley of Bernice demonstrated the many complex tool-making techniques used by prehistoric cultures. Amy Estep prepared Indian fry bread for the crowd and Larry Estep performed music with his Indian flute. Several local enthusiasts brought in their archaeological “finds” for Girard and other experts to identify.
The research center was named in honor of James Harty of Bernice, as he was a devoted avocational archaeologist, teacher, and coach. He heavily researched several prehistoric Indian sites in Union Parish and beyond, with four of his articles published in Louisiana Archaeology magazine. “Coach Harty was an enthusiastic and highly respected researcher in the field of archaeology,” says Tom “Tuffy” Fields, coordinator of the museum’s “First People” collection. “We miss Coach. So we hope this research center will honor his memory.”
The exhibit currently includes artifacts and other items from the James Harty Family, Cal Colvin, David Chrisman, Wayne Abercrombie, Carol Jo Johnston, Larry Pixley, Michael Christian, Gene BeDoit, Tom Fields, Richard Wolf, and Jean and Steve Jones. Artist Hooshang Khorasani has six large paintings of plains Indians on display. David Taylor’s mural, “Day’s Work,” which will be on permanent display, depicts Caddo Indian house-building and pottery-making. The museum is grateful to these entities for making the day possible: Tom and Bonnie Fields, Claiborne Electric Operation Round Up, the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities, and the National Endowment for the Humanities. The views, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this program do not necessarily represent those of either the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities or the National Endowment for the Humanities.
The public is invited to visit the “First People of Union Parish” permanent exhibit, in addition to other rotating and permanent displays. Admission is free. Hours: 1 to 5 p.m. Tuesday-Friday; 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday. For more information, call 318-982-8020 or visit www.unionmuseumofhistoryandart.org.
Union Museum of History and Art is the proud recipient of CARES Act funding from the National Endowment for the Humanities (via the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities) and from the National Endowment for the Arts (via the Louisiana Division of the Arts).
Union Museum of History and Art gratefully acknowledges arts grants
Several projects of the Union Museum of History and Art have been supported by grants 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 Northeast Louisiana Arts Council, Inc. Funding has also been provided by the National Endowment for the Arts, Art Works.”
Several projects of the Union Museum of History and Art have been supported by grants 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 Northeast Louisiana Arts Council, Inc. Funding has also been provided by the National Endowment for the Arts, Art Works.”
"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 today the Union Museum of History and Art is 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 today the Union Museum of History and Art is 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.