Promotional graphic with a textured, vintage paper background and decorative pressed flowers. Centered title reads “Creole Roots: Stories of Freedom in the Family Tree.” Below are three portrait photos: at left, Dianne Honoré smiling in a wide straw hat and headwrap; center, Leonard Smith III in a blue suit, smiling; right, Don Vappie seated with a banjo, wearing a hat and dark suit. Each name appears beneath the corresponding photo.

Creole Roots: Stories of Freedom in the Family Tree

Thu, May 07, 2026

5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.

New Orleans

The Cabildo

The Louisiana State Museum invites you to visit the Cabildo on May 7, 2026 for a night dedicated to uncovering forgotten family legacies. Join presenters Dianne Honoré and Leonard Smith III, as they detail their personal investigations into their families’ Creole genealogy, and the unknown stories of freedom they uncovered along the way.

Dianne’s presentation will focus on her research into the lives of her ancestors during Spanish colonial Louisiana, including Catiche Destrehan, who was able to self-purchase her freedom, while Leonard will discuss how he discovered the story of his third great-grandmother Louise, a formerly enslaved woman in antebellum Louisiana who won her freedom through an eleven-year court battle. He will also give tips for amateur historians hoping to uncover their own unique history using archival resources.

From 5:30 to 6:00 p.m., enjoy Creole jazz performed by Don Vappie. The presentation will begin at 6:00 p.m., with time for questions after. Light refreshments will be available courtesy of the Louisiana Museum Foundation.

This evening is free and open to the public, but registration is requested. Click here to register.

For questions, please email Katie Trevino at [email protected].