Preserve Louisiana

The Foundation for Historical Louisiana has a new name. In mid-October, the board of directors voted to adopt “Preserve Louisiana” for the Baton Rouge nonprofit, which has championed preservation of the state’s landmark buildings and material culture for more than forty years. Executive Director Fairleigh Cook-Jackson explained that the goal of the rebranding, (the name was the brainchild of intern Maleye Porter-Jones) is to convey that historic preservation is an active, participatory process—not just a description of what the organization does, but also an invitation to get involved. “We wanted a name that accurately reflected our mission, to actively preserve the architectural and cultural heritage of our state,” she said. “Preserve Louisiana is a name that reflects our mission and commitment, and our hope is that it will compel others to engage in this important work.” 

On November 3, the rebranding campaign will be unveiled at the Old Governor’s Mansion annual gala, alongside the opening of Baton Rouge: The Past 200 Years, an exhibit that superimposes historic photographs atop contemporary images captured from the same vantage points. Using archival photos depicting sites and experiences from throughout Baton Rouge’s twentieth century history, photographers including Frank McMains, Mark Bienvenu, Katherine Lea, and Collin Richie set out to capture the same scenes as they appear today. The compilations present poignant illustrations of the vital connection between past and present and reminders of what we have gained and lost. The exhibit is the latest in an ongoing series being shown at the mansion, the goal of which is to provide a platform to educate about preservation. 

Baton Rouge: The Past 200 Years opens during the Old Governor’s Mansion Gala on November 3. Both celebrate the two hundredth anniversary of the city’s founding in 1817. Tickets begin at $75. fhl.org.