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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Museum and library to observe Autism Awareness Month--
Art show is now open
“Shining a Light on Autism” is being observed jointly by the Union Museum of History and Art and the Union Parish Library during the month of April, known as National Autism Awareness Month. A special exhibit of artworks by autistic individuals opened with a celebratory reception on Tuesday, April 1, in the museum. Special guests at the event were several of the young artists, and Dr. Dawn Stanfield of the Academy of Collaborative Education school for autistic children. The paintings were created by some 45 children and adults who receive services from the Melanie Massey Physical Therapy clinics in Ruston, Monroe, West Monroe, and Shreveport. We thank the staffs of these clinics plus those of Mojoy Studio for leading these young artists in their creative expression. The exhibit will be on display through April 25 in the museum, located at 211 N. Main St., Farmerville.
Dr. Stanfield, author of Sweet Kisses Have No Boundaries book about autism, will be the guest speaker for a book-signing in the Union Parish Library on Monday, April 14 at 6 p.m. Her book shares her first-hand experiences as a mother and caregiver of an autistic child, and as an educator of autistic children. Amazon.com describes the book with these words, “The stories in this book celebrate the life of individuals with autism even during the difficult times…a must read by everyone who is touched by autism.” The library is located at 202 W. Jackson St., Farmerville.
Art show is now open
“Shining a Light on Autism” is being observed jointly by the Union Museum of History and Art and the Union Parish Library during the month of April, known as National Autism Awareness Month. A special exhibit of artworks by autistic individuals opened with a celebratory reception on Tuesday, April 1, in the museum. Special guests at the event were several of the young artists, and Dr. Dawn Stanfield of the Academy of Collaborative Education school for autistic children. The paintings were created by some 45 children and adults who receive services from the Melanie Massey Physical Therapy clinics in Ruston, Monroe, West Monroe, and Shreveport. We thank the staffs of these clinics plus those of Mojoy Studio for leading these young artists in their creative expression. The exhibit will be on display through April 25 in the museum, located at 211 N. Main St., Farmerville.
Dr. Stanfield, author of Sweet Kisses Have No Boundaries book about autism, will be the guest speaker for a book-signing in the Union Parish Library on Monday, April 14 at 6 p.m. Her book shares her first-hand experiences as a mother and caregiver of an autistic child, and as an educator of autistic children. Amazon.com describes the book with these words, “The stories in this book celebrate the life of individuals with autism even during the difficult times…a must read by everyone who is touched by autism.” The library is located at 202 W. Jackson St., Farmerville.

"Secret Garden Gala" fundraiser set for May 1
Hurry to get your tickets to the Museum's upcoming Secret Garden Gala evening of fine dining and music on Thursday, May 1, from 6 to 9 p.m., in the Lake D'Arbonne Country Club! 'Twill be an evening to remember...all in support of the museum's mission of lifelong learning for local youth and adults! Call 318-982-8020 or use the red DONATE button at the top of this website page to purchase tickets. The event dress is cocktail or formal.
Sincere thanks to the generous underwriters of this event: The Hon. Bruce Hampton and the Union Parish Chamber of Commerce.
Hurry to get your tickets to the Museum's upcoming Secret Garden Gala evening of fine dining and music on Thursday, May 1, from 6 to 9 p.m., in the Lake D'Arbonne Country Club! 'Twill be an evening to remember...all in support of the museum's mission of lifelong learning for local youth and adults! Call 318-982-8020 or use the red DONATE button at the top of this website page to purchase tickets. The event dress is cocktail or formal.
Sincere thanks to the generous underwriters of this event: The Hon. Bruce Hampton and the Union Parish Chamber of Commerce.
Watson Brake subject of April 15 talk
Watson Brake, generally considered as the site of the oldest earthen mounds construction in the western hemisphere, will be the subject of a talk by Dr. Gary Stringer on Tuesday, April 15, at 5:30 p.m. the Union Museum of History and Art, 211 N. Main St., Farmerville. Estimated to be some 5400 years old, Watson Brake consists of 11 mounds located south of West Monroe, along Watson Bayou. Most archaeologists agree that the Archaic site pre-dates all other mound sites in the Americas, including Poverty Point and LSU.
Dr. Stringer is Professor Emeritus of Geology, University of Louisiana-Monroe, and is an esteemed researcher in geology, archaeology, and paleontology.
This talk is part of the ongoing features of the D’Arbonne Diggers archaeology study group. It is open to the public.
Watson Brake, generally considered as the site of the oldest earthen mounds construction in the western hemisphere, will be the subject of a talk by Dr. Gary Stringer on Tuesday, April 15, at 5:30 p.m. the Union Museum of History and Art, 211 N. Main St., Farmerville. Estimated to be some 5400 years old, Watson Brake consists of 11 mounds located south of West Monroe, along Watson Bayou. Most archaeologists agree that the Archaic site pre-dates all other mound sites in the Americas, including Poverty Point and LSU.
Dr. Stringer is Professor Emeritus of Geology, University of Louisiana-Monroe, and is an esteemed researcher in geology, archaeology, and paleontology.
This talk is part of the ongoing features of the D’Arbonne Diggers archaeology study group. It is open to the public.
ATTENTION: Union Parish clubs, organizations, nonprofits...
The Union Museum of History and Art wants to showcase YOU in a biiiiiggggg exhibit May 6 to June 20. Each participating organization will have designated exhibit space in the museum, where you can place your public display and show the world how terrific you are!! CALL the museum at 318-982-8020 to sign up your organization or if you have any questions or suggestions. This exhibit will be for ADULT clubs/organizations. This is for nonprofit organizations, not businesses. |
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Archaeology study group now a chapter of Louisiana state society
The D’Arbonne Diggers archaeology study group, a program of the Union Museum of History and Art, has been accepted as a chapter of the Louisiana Archaeological Society. The LAS executive board made the affiliation official at its meeting on February 21 during the organization’s annual convention in Vidalia, Louisiana. “We are proud to be a part of this prestigious state organization and look forward to even more opportunities to explore our area, learn about its long archaeological history, and publish our findings,” said Thomas “Tuffy” Fields, head of the D’Arbonne Diggers and curator of the museum’s extensive archaeological collection. Fields led the effort to establish the museum’s research center and permanent display of Native American artifacts, form the local club, plan meetings and excavations, and apply for state affiliation. Fields also was a speaker at the LAS convention, where he discussed the Diggers club and its archaeological research activities.
To learn more about the D'Arbonne Diggers activities, visit www.UnionMuseumofHistoryandArt.org or call the museum at 318-982-8020. The next event will be a talk by Jameel Damlouji on the value of pottery and glass in archaeological research on Thursday, March 27, at 5:30 p.m. The museum is located at 211 N. Main Street, Farmerville, Louisiana.
The D’Arbonne Diggers archaeology study group, a program of the Union Museum of History and Art, has been accepted as a chapter of the Louisiana Archaeological Society. The LAS executive board made the affiliation official at its meeting on February 21 during the organization’s annual convention in Vidalia, Louisiana. “We are proud to be a part of this prestigious state organization and look forward to even more opportunities to explore our area, learn about its long archaeological history, and publish our findings,” said Thomas “Tuffy” Fields, head of the D’Arbonne Diggers and curator of the museum’s extensive archaeological collection. Fields led the effort to establish the museum’s research center and permanent display of Native American artifacts, form the local club, plan meetings and excavations, and apply for state affiliation. Fields also was a speaker at the LAS convention, where he discussed the Diggers club and its archaeological research activities.
To learn more about the D'Arbonne Diggers activities, visit www.UnionMuseumofHistoryandArt.org or call the museum at 318-982-8020. The next event will be a talk by Jameel Damlouji on the value of pottery and glass in archaeological research on Thursday, March 27, at 5:30 p.m. The museum is located at 211 N. Main Street, Farmerville, Louisiana.
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.

Museum celebrates 10-year anniversary
Union Museum of History and Art first opened to the public on December 11, 2014, with its inaugural exhibit, “Celebrating the Waters of Union Parish.” We are delighted to be celebrating TEN years of service to this community! In that time, the museum has brought quality educational programs and services to thousands of individuals within and beyond Union Parish.
We look forward to the next exciting decade...and beyond!
Union Museum of History and Art first opened to the public on December 11, 2014, with its inaugural exhibit, “Celebrating the Waters of Union Parish.” We are delighted to be celebrating TEN years of service to this community! In that time, the museum has brought quality educational programs and services to thousands of individuals within and beyond Union Parish.
We look forward to the next exciting decade...and beyond!
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. 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!
Union Museum of History and Art - Discovery Place depends on the public for support in order to continue serving the people of this community. 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!
UPCOMING EVENTS
April 1 - 25 -- "Shining a Light on Autism" exhibit featuring art by autistic individuals. Thanks to Melanie Massey Physical Therapy and Mojoy Studio for their generous assistance.
April 14, 6 p.m. -- In the Union Parish Library: Dr. Dawn Stanfield will hold a book-signing and talk about her book on autism, Sweet Kisses Have No Boundaries.
April 15, 5:30 p.m. -- "Watson Brake Site," talk by Dr. Gary Stringer, professor emeritus of geology, ULM. D'Arbonne Diggers archaeology study group. Open to the public.
May 6 - June 20 -- "Common Ground" exhibit showcasing some 28 local clubs and organizations.
May 24, 2 p.m. -- Folkcraft class: "Bread Making," led by Diane Senn. $25 fee. Register at 318-982-8020.
May 31, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. -- Union Parish Joy Ride, bus tour of historic sites and other points of interest in the parish. $40 per passenger. To sign up, call 318-982-8020.
June 26, 5:30 p.m. -- “Tunica-Biloxi Tribe,” by Ryan Lopez, tribal representative. D'Arbonne Diggers archaeology study group. Open to the public.
July 8 - 31 -- "Christmas in July" exhibit
July 12 -- Folkcraft class: "Home Canning," led by Marianna Langston. Register at 318-982-8020
July 24, 5:30 p.m. -- "Plum Creek Site," talk by Dr. Gary Stringer, professor emeritus of geology, ULM. D'Arbonne Diggers archaeology study group. Open to the public.
October 4, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. -- Bayou D'Arbonne Folk Festival, on the grounds and adjoining streets of the museum, 211 N. Main St., Farmerville.
April 1 - 25 -- "Shining a Light on Autism" exhibit featuring art by autistic individuals. Thanks to Melanie Massey Physical Therapy and Mojoy Studio for their generous assistance.
April 14, 6 p.m. -- In the Union Parish Library: Dr. Dawn Stanfield will hold a book-signing and talk about her book on autism, Sweet Kisses Have No Boundaries.
April 15, 5:30 p.m. -- "Watson Brake Site," talk by Dr. Gary Stringer, professor emeritus of geology, ULM. D'Arbonne Diggers archaeology study group. Open to the public.
May 6 - June 20 -- "Common Ground" exhibit showcasing some 28 local clubs and organizations.
May 24, 2 p.m. -- Folkcraft class: "Bread Making," led by Diane Senn. $25 fee. Register at 318-982-8020.
May 31, 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. -- Union Parish Joy Ride, bus tour of historic sites and other points of interest in the parish. $40 per passenger. To sign up, call 318-982-8020.
June 26, 5:30 p.m. -- “Tunica-Biloxi Tribe,” by Ryan Lopez, tribal representative. D'Arbonne Diggers archaeology study group. Open to the public.
July 8 - 31 -- "Christmas in July" exhibit
July 12 -- Folkcraft class: "Home Canning," led by Marianna Langston. Register at 318-982-8020
July 24, 5:30 p.m. -- "Plum Creek Site," talk by Dr. Gary Stringer, professor emeritus of geology, ULM. D'Arbonne Diggers archaeology study group. Open to the public.
October 4, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. -- Bayou D'Arbonne Folk Festival, on the grounds and adjoining streets of the museum, 211 N. Main St., Farmerville.
Board of Directors, 2025
Union Museum of History and Art
Mary Barrios
Dawn Frasier
Pam Gale Hallman
Ramsey Hallman
Glenda Henderson
Lesa W. Lawrence, Ph.D.
Richard Royal
Jamie Taylor
Brittany Unkel
Museum Director
Vickie Wheelis, Ed.D.
Union Museum of History and Art
Mary Barrios
Dawn Frasier
Pam Gale Hallman
Ramsey Hallman
Glenda Henderson
Lesa W. Lawrence, Ph.D.
Richard Royal
Jamie Taylor
Brittany Unkel
Museum Director
Vickie 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.