Friday, October 31, 2008

Return to Iwo Jima, presented by Thomas Moore

November 15, 2008, 10 a.m.,
at the Bluebonnet Library,
9200 Bluebonnet Blvd, Baton Rouge


For some years, access to Iwo Jima, site of the historic raising of the flag in World War II, has been strictly limited, but our speaker this month received approval to visit the island recently. Veteran Thomas Moore, head of Lagniappe Studies at LSU, will present vivid photographs and a moving account of his visit to the hilltop and to the “apartments” (caves) where 20,000 Japanese died (and remain), as well as his exchange with U.S. veterans and Japanese drawn back to that fateful site. Through seldom-seen historic photographs and his own pictures, he shows the island as it was then and as it is today. Featured also is a surprising account and photos of the Enola Gay and its connection to the island, as well as an exhibit of the soil in which the U.S. flag was planted. Invite a World War II veteran or two to accompany you to this special program.

Look who's coming in 2009!

The Baton Rouge Genealogical and Historical society is already lining up speakers for 2009. This group meets on the third Saturday each month to explore topics in history and genealogy. Come share a cup of coffee and join the discussion!

Sat., Jan 17, 2009
Paul McKeough, BRGHS member & officer
This meeting will be held at the State Archives, on Essen Rd, Baton Rouge.

“An Irishman on the Manchac” – Paul will recount life on the bayou from 1779 to 1803 through the story of John McKeough (McHugh), who capitalized on land opportunities to British Army and Navy veterans of the 18th century and was both a farmer and merchant on the bayou.

Sat., Feb 21, 2009
Robert B. Noles, Genealogist & DNA Program Manager
Meeting at Bluebonnet Library, 9200 Bluebonnet Blvd.

“Tracing Your Indian Ancestry Through DNA” -- This DNA research specialist and manager of 20 DNA projects for genealogical research will discuss four types of genetic genealogical tests and what they can tell you about your Native American ancestry.

Sat., Mar 21, 2009
David Madden, Chair Louisiana Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial Commission
The meeting will be held at the State Archives, Essen Rd, Baton Rouge.

“Lincoln & Louisiana” – Celebrates Abraham Lincoln’s 200th birthday with a very little known story of the President’s unique Louisiana connections – from his visit to New Orleans in 1831 to his plans (made shortly before his death and set in motion) to use Louisiana as the model for a kinder, gentler reconstruction.

Thursday, October 16, 2008

Mary Ann Sternberg discusses Bayou Manchac

Saturday the regular meeting of the Baton Rouge Genealogical and Historical Society will hear a presentation by Mary Ann Sternberg, author, and journalist. She will discuss her book "Bayou Manchac: Winding Through Time” which explores the forgotten past and the present-day perils facing historic Bayou Manchac. Sternberg draws on discoveries she made using the tenacity and skill of a historical detective. The bayou was once the international boundry between Spain and Britian during the colonial period. The meeting will be at 10 AM Saturday October 18 at the BluebonnetLibrary. Visitors are welcome to attend the meeting.

Wednesday, October 15, 2008

WW2 program ends with Homefront issues

The East Baton Rouge Parish library and the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities provided six weeks of program and discussion on WWII. The result was an amazing camaraderie of about 50 individuals who steadfastly attended - despite hurricanes and busy personal schedules. Thanks to all of you for making this a big success. Thanks to Dr. Hilton for providing stimulating questions and information for discussion!

The class evolved beyond academic discussion to personal sharing. Many people brought in personal momentos, artifacts and stories relating to WWII. It was fascinating to see photos that were taken from bomber bays, medals, ration books, uniforms, letters, and personal scrapbooks from that time.


The organizers also want to thank the Louisiana State Archives for the loan of the 16 panel display of WWII events and the National D-Day museum in New Orleans for the donation of several posters. If you get a chance be sure and let all our participants know how much their part in this program is appreciated. Thanks, again!