Magnolia’s Memories:

Magnolia’s Memories is an entertaining living history initiative held annually in March. It introduces attendees to notable citizens of the community by means of dynamic monologues and dialogues in the landmark setting. Professional actors and musicians come together to create this special evening.

The outdoor drama vignettes are set in candle-lighted Historic Magnolia Cemetery between Florida Boulevard and Main, with the entrance on North 19th Street in Baton Rouge.  The drama is based on narratives from news archives, descendants, diaries, military records, logs, history books, and local legend. Many of these documents are displayed in the outdoor “lobby,” where the FHL offers refreshments, t-shirts and museum gifts. Proceeds benefit the FHL preservation projects. “This is FHL’s most popular event, with limited tickets and seating,” says FHL Executive Director Carolyn Bennett. So don’t miss out!

Samples from past performances

Excerpts from 2008 performances.

Preservation Awards Banquet:

Each July, FHL recognizes individuals and groups across the state for their efforts in preserving the cultural and architectural heritage of Louisiana. These prestigious awards, dating back to 1976, have honored preservationists, authors, scholars, architects, and museums. At a formal dinner reception, awardees receive a certificate that expresses FHL’s appreciate for their strides toward “making the past known and useful to the present.” The public is encouraged to nominate an individual or group they feel is worthy of this honor.

In 2004, the Foundation for Historical Louisiana created a Bricks and Mortar award to honor individuals or an organization that have completed a successful adaptive restoration of an historic structure. In 2007, the Phoenix Award was created to honor an individual or organization who have rescued an endangered historical landmark.

Battle of Baton Rouge Commemoration

In August, the Foundation for Historical Louisiana holds a patriotic ceremony at Historic Magnolia Cemetery to honor the 1862 Battle of Baton Rouge. The program features a color guard, canon firing, wreath laying, taps, a vocalist, and civil war enthusiasts in period dress. Children are encouraged to attend this free event. Civil War books and heritage items are on sale from the Foundation for Historical Louisiana’s museum store.

The Battle of Baton Rouge took place on August 5, 1862 on the grounds of Magnolia Cemetery. Louisiana seceded from the Union on January 25, 1861. On May 29, 1862, Union troops led by Brigadier General Thomas Williams began the Federal Occupation of Baton Rouge.

On August 5 at 4 a.m., Major General John C. Breckinridge and his 2,600 troops from Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Tennessee, and Kentucky entered Baton Rouge and began fighting Union forces. The Confederate army forced the Union troops back toward the Mississippi River. But, in order to recapture Baton Rouge, the Confederates needed their iron clad ram, the C.S.S. Arkansas to destroy all the Union ships on the river. The Arkansas, however, suffered engine trouble and was burned and set adrift by its crew four miles upriver from Baton Rouge. Unharmed, the U.S. S. Essex and four other Union gunboats bombarded the Confederate troops until they withdrew and marched out of Baton Rouge that same day. Among the soldiers that fell was Brigadier General Williams and A.G. Todd, half-brother of Mary Todd Lincoln, President Lincoln’s wife.

Old Governor’ Mansion Gala

The Old Governor’s Mansion Gala is an annual party thrown to raise money for the Foundation’s preservation projects. The formal event boasts a silent auction, food, spirits, and a live band. Past themes have been “Louisiana’s French Connection”, “Hollywood on the Bayou,” and “Louisiana’s Famous and Infamous.” Attendees are encouraged to dress to the theme and the Old Governor’s Mansion is decorated befitting it as well. The event, which is usually held in October, is the Foundation’s biggest fundraiser.

See highlights from the 2009 Gala
See highlights from the 2008 Gala
See highlights from the 2007 Gala

Holiday Open House

Celebrate this holiday season with the Foundation for Historical Louisiana at the Old Governor’s Mansion Holiday Open House. This annual event coincides with downtown’s Festival of Lights and will showcase the Mansion, decked out in her holiday best! First floor historic rooms will be open and Mr. and Mrs. Claus will be in the East Room to listen to all of your holiday wishes. The Old Governor’s Mansion State Dining Room transforms into a shopping wonderland and is always a great place to find the perfect gift.

The Old Governor’s Mansion Holiday Open House is free and open to the public.

Annual Meeting

Annually, the Foundation for Historical Louisiana holds a public meeting to discuss current preservation projects with its members. The newly elected Board of Directors is also installed at this meeting.

Images from the 2009 meeting.