[ no-e-tik ] adjective of, relating to, or based on the intellect. Its use in philosophical and psychological writing shows that it is perhaps the most abstract of our “thought” words. Noetic is often used in connection with the supernatural.
WORD ON THE STREET
Quantum theory has opened the door to a noetic, mind-based
Former astronaut Ed Mitchell founded a center for the study of paranormal phenomena and consciousness called the Institute of
As the cool breeze of fall starts to sweep through Terrebonne and Lafourche parishes, we find ourselves at the heart of one of our most cherished traditions—festival season. These festivals, from the spirited Rougarou Festival to the time-honored Thibodeauxville Fall festival, are more than just gatherings. They are celebrations of who we are, where we come from, and the deep-rooted culture that binds us together as a community.
I have always found such joy in festival season. While our spring festivals are so much fun, there is a special place in my heart for a fall festival. Some of my favorites are in the fall! Once upon a time, one of my various jobs involved attending local festivals and enjoying all that each one had to offer, especially those in our smaller bayou communities.. I have amazing memories of the Gumbo Festival in Chackbay; the Dularge Fair; and the French Food Festival in Larose. The food, the music and dancing, the auctions… did I mention the food? I swear, I could eat a fair burger at every meal during festival season. Deep fry it and put it on a stick? I’m in. Bonus points for festivals that put their white bean booth next to the jambalaya booth and let you sub jambalaya for rice!
that fair burgers are fair game for all three meals.
This issue focuses on the fall fairs and festivals that make south Louisiana a true destination this time of year. October brings with it an abundance of festive energy, and we are here to share it with you!
While my husband John likes festivals and will usually go to one or two, our son Jackson is my festival baby! All you have to do is tell Jackson it’s a festival, and he’s out the door. Like most children, he’s a sucker for petting zoos, snowballs, and inflatables. When he was younger, you could usually find us together, either strapped to me in our baby-wearing carrier or riding along in our trusty festival wagon. He used to cut a rug to any style of music, but as a toddler, had a special love for Cajun music, especially the fiddle. Now at age 9, he’s a little less likely to dance, but you can still find his foot tapping at any festival where there is music. He long ago decided, like his momma,
One of our more unique festivals is the Rougarou Fest. As ghouls and goblins roam the streets in celebration of this local legend, the festival highlights our Cajun folklore in a way that’s both spooky and family-friendly. This year, we are particularly excited to feature Mrs. Courtney Bennett, the Lucky 13th Queen of the Rougarou Festival. The festival’s mythical namesake, the Rougarou, reflects the mystical allure of our region. But it is the queen who represents the heart and soul of this festival—a symbol of tradition, pride, and a shared sense of joy. Check out her amazing costume inspired by the story of the fifolet, a supernatural creature believed to be a type of mischievous spirit or fairy that appears as a glowing light, often seen floating over marshes, swamps, or other eerie, dark places. Learn more about this creature and what being the Rougarou Queen means to Courtney starting on page 14.
The October issue also contains a listing of all our major festivals in the area. These festivals are the lifeblood of our community. They provide a space for us to reconnect, to celebrate the unique culture that makes our region special, and to pass down traditions to the next generation. From the lively parades to the vibrant music, every festival reflects our unwavering spirit and our love for the bayou. Please enjoy our calendar, starting on page 18.
As you explore the pages of this issue, we invite you to celebrate with us—to be a part of the stories, the traditions, and the moments that make Terrebonne and Lafourche such a special place to call home. Here’s to the festivals that keep our culture vibrant and our community connected! POV
What’s your favorite Louisiana festival and why?
MEGAN
REESE
My favorite fall festival is the Rougarou Festival because of all the fun activities. I got to pet a nutria rat, paint oyster shells, ride rides, and saw creepy clowns in a haunted house. I also loved watching the hot air balloons.
I love the Bayou Arts Fest because it’s a chance for me to enjoy fantastic music and art in one place. I always look forward to discovering new artists and soaking up the vibrant atmosphere. It’s an event that never fails to entertain and inspire me.
ASHLEY
The Rougarou Fest is my favorite for its vibrant parade and the incredible costumes. The Rougarou Queen is always a standout, and the creativity and flair of the costumes make the whole event unforgettable. I love that it’s a celebration of the spirit and charm of the bayou!
NATALIE
Bayou Arts Fest! I love collecting original artwork, especially from our amazing South Louisiana Artists. This festival gathers so many amazing artists in one place and it’s a beautiful sight to see.
DESIREE
The Alligator Festival. I like the opportunity to try different Cajun cuisines, enjoy cold beer, shop crafts from local vendors, and enjoy Cajun music.
A HAUNTINGLY BEAUTIFUL CREATION
BY MARY DOWNER DITCH | PHOTOS BY LAUREN & GRANT HEMSTREET
Halloween is more than just a holiday filled with costumes and candy—it's an entire season of fun, fantasy, and a little bit of fright. For one dedicated creator, it's a year-round project, culminating in a whimsical and eerie masterpiece: a handcrafted Halloween village that brings the spirit of the season to life in miniature form.
"I love the silly and spooky aesthetic of Halloween and wanted to create my own little slice of it," says Lauren Hemstreet about her nontraditional holiday village. It's a passion that's clearly reflected in every detail of the project, from the cobblestone paths winding through eerie tombstones to the intricate buildings that make up this spooky little town.
Almost everything in the village is hand-crafted, and the level of detail is
staggering. Each of the foundational pieces is hand-carved from insulation foam. "Some have a more sinister cliffface look, while others are meant to have a friendlier feel with cobblestone paths," shares Lauren. "My favorite detail would have to be the planning that went into the layout of the foundations. Each piece was designed, carved, and decorated with the building on top in mind, so it fits together seamlessly and looks custom-made, because it was!"
Tombstones were painstakingly carved, painted, and decorated with tiny plants, while a pond was carved and filled with epoxy to give it an authentic shimmer. Even the light posts were made from scratch using clay and toothpicks. Every inch of the village is filled with careful thought, making it a completely unique creation.
Though setting up the village takes just an hour or two, the labor of love behind it stretches far beyond. The village is two years in the making with the help of Lauren's husband Grant, who also painted the fixtures, helped string up the lights, and willingly figured out how and where to store these villages after the season is over.
With eight different fixtures, including a bar and wig shop, the village is a lively hub of Halloween cheer. But if the creator had to pick a favorite spot to call home? “I would have to choose the cozy little pumpkin cottage,” Lauren says, although she admits, "You'd probably find me spending most of my time at the Creatures of the Night pet shop!" POV
BY ISABELLE PINTO
PHOTOS BY DRISTY FORET PHOTOGRAPHY
As Terrebonne’s award-winning Rougarou Festival approaches, excitement is brewing over the crowning of this year’s festival queen, Mrs. Courtney Bennett. Selected for her embodiment of the festival’s lively spirit and dedication to preserving regional traditions, Courtney is excited to bring a special twist to her reign as the Rougarou Festival’s 13th Queen.
We are all just different kinds of beautiful.
When we believe we are beautiful, that is when we truly shine.
A native of Morgan City and a resident of Houma since 1984, Courtney graduated from Nicholls State University with a degree in Early Childhood Education. She spent many years working with children at her church’s preschool, organizing events at South Louisiana Center for the Arts Children’s Theatre, and teaching dance at the Paddy Danos School of Dance, alongside raising two amazing children. Throughout all of her community involvement, Courtney continued to grow her passion for makeup, theater, and creativity, pursuing a cosmetology license and now working as a hairstylist at Ambiance Salon in Houma.
Courtney’s interest in designing hair, makeup, and costuming eventually led her right to the door of Houma’s Rougarou Fest. Courtney has been a Rougarou Witch in the annual Krewe-Ga-Rou Parade for many years, haunting the streets of Houma in elaborate costumes and makeup (which often take hours to complete). After years of dedication to the local festival, Courtney was honored to accept the title of 2024's Rougarou Queen.
"The first time I saw the Rougarou parade, I knew I had to be a part of it. I've been a member of the Rougarou Witches for so many years that when I was asked to be Queen, I was so honored and excited," said Courtney. "I never thought that they would consider me for Queen, so it came as a total shock. I am so humbled by this opportunity."
One of the biggest responsibilities of the Rougarou Queen is the designing of their personal costume, as each Queen aims to bring a unique and spooky spin to their outfit. "My costume is inspired by the story of the fifolet," explained Courtney. "In Louisiana folklore, the fifolet is a supernatural creature believed to be a type of mischievous spirit or fairy that appears as a glowing light, often seen floating over marshes, swamps, or other eerie, dark places. Lots of times, we mistake them for fireflies," said Courtney playfully.
Much like the "will-o'-the-wisp," the fifolet is a trickster that is said to lead people astray, often drawing them into dangerous or confusing situations in the local bayous. In some tales, encountering a fifolet might mean you're about to face some misfortune or get lost – the lore around fifolets reflects the rich tapestry of Cajun and Creole folklore, blending elements of European, African, and Native American traditions to create this unique mythΩ
Courtney’s mythical inspiration will not only make for a great costume, but will also bring a new twist to the Krewe-Ga-Rou parade. "Alongside the zombies, witches, and other groups that walk in the parade, we will now have a group of fifolets too," said Courtney. "Everything will be illuminated, with lit-up wings, costumes, fans, and more-- they'll flutter and float throughout the parade, and I think it will be a wonderful addition to the parade."
In the spirit of the fifolet, Courtney’s costume (and the costumes
of her fellow fifolets) will weave in rich shades of blue, oranges, purples, and more. However, the Rougarou Queen also hopes to include a subtle nod to the festival’s 13th year. As the number 13 is considered to be an unlucky and haunting number, the Rougarou Festival’s 13th year is sure to be exceptionally spooky – and Courtney does not plan to let that go unnoticed. "Alongside my fifolet theme, I'm going to incorporate 13 pennies into my costume to honor this anniversary," explained Courtney. 13 pennies also appear on this year ’s Rougarou Festival official poster.
In preparation to become Rougarou Queen, Courtney wishes to thank her hair and makeup stylist Dustin McElroy for his extensive help, alongside all the stylists at Ambiance Salon for their love and support throughout the process. Courtney also wishes to thank the seamstresses at Chez Lilli Bridal in Houma for helping to design and create her final fifolet costume.
“Lastly, I would like to thank my parents, family, friends, and especially my husband and kids for always allowing me to be the crazy fun, creative person that you all know me to be. Without your loving support, I wouldn’t be me,” said Courtney. "I also want to thank Jonathan Foret with the South Louisiana Wetlands Discovery Center for giving me the opportunity to be the 13th Rougarou Queen. I have had so much fun already, and I can't wait for everyone to come out and enjoy the festival."
The Rougarou Fest, celebrating the rich folklore that exists along the bayous of Southeast Louisiana, will take place October 18-20, 2024 in Houma. The festival will showcase live music, cultural activities, children’s activities, Cajun food, and of course, the Rougarou Queen. All proceeds go to the non-profit South Louisiana Wetlands Discovery Center. For more information, please visit their website at www.rougaroufest.org. POV
It's festival season! Fairs and festivals are the lifeblood of our community. They provide a space for us to reconnect, to celebrate the unique culture that makes our region special, and to pass down traditions to the next generation. From the lively parades to the vibrant music, every festival reflects our unwavering spirit and our love for the bayou. They are celebrations of who we are, where we come from, and the deep-rooted culture that binds us together as a community. We can't wait to see you out and about at your favorite festivals this season!
MAWMAW WALKER
LA FÊTE DES VIEUX TEMPS
Oct. 4-6 | Lafourche Pavillion, Raceland
Called the "Festival of Old Times" this event features a celebration of music, dancing, Cajun food, and arts & crafts show. This long standing event is a local favorite and showcases the true authentic Cajun culture of Lafourche Parish. New for this year: the return of the pirogue races!
4TH ANNUAL MAWMAW WALKER
Oct. 5 | Houma Courthouse Square
Hosted by the Hache Grant Association in the name of downtown revitalization, the Maw Maw Walker encourages participants to wear their favorite mumu for an afternoon of fun! The event begins with a Best Dressed Maw Maw and Paw Paw contest at noon. Contestants must register to enter, for a $10 registration fee. Those who register for the Best Dressed Maw Maw and Paw Paw contest also get entered into a raffle for a prize and have the chance to vote for the best stop on the Maw Maw Walker route event! The traditional 5k pub crawl style begins around 1p.m. The walk itself is free for participants. The walk will visit pubs and restaurants in downtown, helping to increase pedestrian commerce for the area. Once the Maw Maws and Paw Paws finish the route, the party returns to the Courthouse Square for a free concert on the bandstand with Flesh Karnival from 5-8 p.m.
BAYOU ARTS FEST
Oct. 11-12 | Downtown Houma
Explore Houma and the Bayou Regional Arts Council are excited to present Bayou Arts Fest, a celebration that brings together artists, performers, and art lovers from all walks of life. This event is more than just a festival; it’s a testament to the creativity and cultures of our community. Now in its third year, this year’s festival introduces an exciting new feature: The Culture Collective, presented by the Atchafalaya National Heritage Foundation Legacy Grant. The Culture Collective is more than just an addition to the festival—it’s a vibrant showcase of the diverse traditions that make our community so unique. This year’s musical lineup for the event includes exciting musical favorites. The White Boot Stage will host the Singer Songwriter
Sessions, Curly Taylor and Zydeco Trouble, and The Pine Leaf Boys. The Main Stage will showcase show stopping performances from Tab Benoit, Anders Osborne, Don Rich, Randy Jackson, Chubby Carrier, Nonc Nu & da Wild Matous, Tyron Benoit, Josh Garrett, Cantina Flies, Bang Bang, and Steve Junot and Friends.
LOUISIANA GUMBO FESTIVAL
Oct. 11-13 | Chackbay Fairgrounds
Founded as a fundraiser for the Chackbay Volunteer Fire Department, the 56th annual Louisiana Gumbo Festival attracts over 15,000 visitors each year. Volunteers cook an estimated 500 gallons of gumbo to serve to festivalgoers. Festival admission is free and the grounds are fenced in to add to the safety of its patrons. The Chackbay Volunteer Fire Department is happy to announce their Royalty, Queen Gumbo Kelly Boudreaux, King Gumbo Ben Benoit and Grand Marshal Billy Lawson. This year’s festival music line-up includes: Friday - J.P. Bourgeois, Shorts in December; Saturday - Tet Dur, Aaron Foret, Heart N Soul, Good Feelin, Chee Weez; Sunday - Ryan Foret, Jr. and Sumtin’ Sneaky.
BAYOU DULARGE CAJUN FAIR
Oct. 11-13 | Knights of Columbus Home, Dularge
The Bayou Dularge Knights of Columbus Cajun Fair will feature music, rides, games and food (po'boys, jambalaya, gumbo and more) on the Knights of Columbus grounds. New on the menu: charbroiled oysters! Music line-up includes: FridayBlake DeHart, Coteau Groove Band, Parish County Line; Saturday - Pot 2 La, Good Company, Caleb Lapeyrouse & the Drivers, Junior & Sumtin’ Sneaky; Sunday - Hwy. 315, Bad Behavior.
BAYOU DULARGE CAJUN FAIR
ROUGAROU FEST
ROUGAROU FEST
Oct. 18-20 | South Louisiana Wetlands Discovery Center and Barry P. Bonvillain Civic Center grounds
The Rougarou welcomes all to attend this popular family-friendly festival to celebrate our culture and heritage at this three-day festival. The Rougarou Fest is a free festival with a spooky flair that celebrates the rich folklore that exists along the bayous of Southeast Louisiana. It showcases live music, cultural activities, children’s activities, Cajun food, the Krewe Ga Rou parade, and so much more. All proceeds go to the South Louisiana Wetlands Discovery Center, a nonprofit organization that is revolutionizing how we think, teach and learn about Louisiana’s disappearing coast. The Rougarou Queen will reign over the parade on Saturday.
ACADIA MUSIC FEST
Oct. 19 | Acadia Plantation, Thibodaux
Acadia Music Fest is a one-day outdoor music festival taking place in Thibodaux, LA! It is open for all ages with music throughout the day from local, national and international musicians. This year’s line-up includes Nelly, Cowboy Mouth, Joe Haydel, Austin Williams, DJ Spin, Little John and the Dirty Clarks, the Premier Soul Band, and Icarus Jones. The Acadia Music Fest will also feature local artists, delicious food, and a Kid’s Korner. The charity supported by this year ’s Acadia Music Fest is Beyond the Bell, an after school program designed to help Racelandarea children and teens.
FRENCH FOOD FESTIVAL
Oct. 25-27 | Larose Civic Center
In addition to delicious Cajun food, and
music, the French Food Festival offers a carnival, auction, art show, Cajun market, a petting zoo, and a variety of contests including a a cornhole tournament, Cajun burger eating contest, dance contest, and a costume contest. Plan to come hungry with over 40 booths of food. Bring your dancing shoes to dance the night away with live music: Friday - Gary T., J.P. Bourgeois, Junior Lacrosse; Saturday - Ryan Foret and the Foret Tradition, Jamie Bergeron and the Kickin’ Cajuns, Snapper and the Fishsticks, Shorts in December; Sunday - Waylon Thibodaux, Benjamin Bruce and the Acadians.
SOUTHDOWN MARKETPLACE
Nov. 2 | Southdown Plantation, Houma
With more than 300 local and national vendors, the Artisan Craft Show has something for everyone. The show will feature unique and hand-made items
BIG BOY’S MAIN STREET COOK-OFF
including, jewelry, clothing, wood crafts, original art, garden items, seasonal items, and more. In addition, delicious foods and beverages will be available for purchase. Admission is $5 per person, with proceeds benefiting the non-profit Terrebonne Historical & Cultural Society and Southdown Plantation & Museum.
BBQ, BOURBON AND BLUES FESTIVAL
Nov. 2 | Warren J Harang Auditorium, Thibodaux
Lafourche Arc is proud to present the BBQ, Bourbon, and Blues Festival! The smell of smokey barbeque, soulful sounds of blues bands and smooth tasty bourbon will appeal to all the senses. The BBQ, Bourbon, and Blues Festival will feature live music
by Tyron Benoit, RKG, Snapper and the Fishsticks, and the Canebreakers. There will also be local mom-and-pop and largechain vendors grilling delicious BBQ during the festival, as well as a BBQ cook-off competition. The festival will also include the Juke Joint Tent, where participants 21 and over may purchase a ticket to taste 30 different kinds of bourbon. General admission tickets are $10; tickets to the Bourbon Juke Joint are $100.
BIG BOY’S MAIN STREET COOK-OFF
Nov. 8 | Downtown Thibodaux
Experience a culinary showcase of Cajun cuisine at Big Boy’s Main Street Cook-Off! Sample Louisiana-inspired dishes from over 30 teams while enjoying live music.
In addition, Goose burgers, soft drinks, and alcoholic beverages will be sold by area bars and restaurants. In order to manage crowd size and comfort, a limited number of tickets will be sold online and a very limited amount of cash sale tickets on event day a the entry gate. Tickets are $15 per person (kids 10 and under are free) & can be purchased via the link below. Tickets are transferable but not refundable. All proceeds benefit Thibodaux Main Street.
THIBODEAUXVILLE FALL FESTIVAL
Nov. 9 | Downtown Thibodaux
Explore beautiful, historic, downtown Thibodaux at Thibodeauxville! The award winning festival will feature three stages of live music, arts and crafts booths, a Cajun food court, a car show, and the infamous rubber duck race in Bayou Lafourche. Admission to the festival is free.
ELKS’ DUCK DERBY COMMUNITY FESTIVAL
Nov. 9 | Downtown Houma
Prepare yourself for a day filled with boundless energy and fantastic festivities, all while supporting a cause that truly makes a difference. We’re rallying together to raise funds for our programs that provide unwavering support to our beloved Veteran Programs. Here’s what’s in store for you at the Duck Derby Extravaganza! Duck Races that will leave you quackers! Watch in awe as hundreds of rubber ducks race against each other, vying for victory in a thrilling display of speed and determination. It’s an adrenaline-pumping spectacle you won’t want to miss! Live music that will get you waddling to the beat! Mouthwatering food and delightful drinks!
But it doesn’t stop there! By attending this extravaganza, you’re making a real impact in the lives of veterans and TARC. Every dollar raised will directly support these remarkable causes, allowing us to continue our vital work throughout the year.
JOSH GARRETT
JOE HAYDEL
Acadia Music Fest
Oct. 19 NELLY
Acadia Music Fest
Oct. 19 COWBOY MOUTH
Acadia Music Fest
Oct. 19
Rougarou Fest
Oct. 20 WAYLON
Rougarou Fest
Oct. 20
French Food Fest
Oct. 26
WE SUPPORT A HEALTHIER FUTURE |
BY KATIE RICHARD, MA, BSN, RN, DIRECTOR OF
DIET CAN IMPACT BREAST CANCER RISK
Dietary choices impact almost every aspect of overall health and wellness. What you eat filters throughout your body to nourish, fuel and sometimes harm you.
A study from the American Cancer Society (ACS) increases concerns about diet and cancer. Statistically, dietary choices may seem minor with a 4.2% link to all cancer cases and 4.3% link to all cancer deaths. However, those risks increase dramatically for certain cancer types. Diet is among several lifestyle habits that impact the risk of breast cancer.
Despite decades of concentrated research, breast cancer remains the most common cancer and leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women. Alarmingly, 1-in-8 US women develop breast cancer with one person being diagnosed every two minutes. The median age at the time of diagnosis is 62.
Louisiana has one of the highest incidence and mortality rates in the country, and breast cancer is the most common cancer for Black women.
However, women can decrease their risk by modifying certain lifestyle behaviors.
Watch what you eat.
Diet can impact breast cancer development
in several ways. Following Mediterranean diets that are rich in plant foods and low in animal products and refined carbohydrates can lower risk. Remember to "eat the rainbow" with a colorful variety of yellow, orange, dark green and red fruits and vegetables, along with whole grains. This Mediterranean diet resource offers tips for menu planning and even grocery lists.
Excessive iron—derived primarily from meat—and certain fats can increase risk. Limit or exclude red meats, sugary drinks and highly processed foods. Diets higher in calcium and vitamin D may reduce risk. Postmenopausal women often experience vitamin D deficiencies, so stay current on wellness visits to monitor your levels.
Control your weight.
Weight gain throughout adulthood and particularly for women after menopause increases breast cancer risk. Rising rates of obesity in this country underscores the need for informed dietary choices and physical activity to prevent cancer and other chronic diseases.
Increase physical activity.
Along with eating healthily, moderate to vigorous physical activity helps lower risk for post-menopausal cancer and may also reduce risk for pre-menopausal women.
ACS recommends 150–300 minutes of moderate intensity or 75–150 minutes of vigorous intensity activity each week.
Limit alcohol consumption.
As alcohol increases risk for pre- and postmenopausal breast cancer, it’s best not to drink at all. Otherwise, limit alcohol to no more than one drink a day.
Follow the guidelines.
The experts at Thibodaux Regional Cancer Institute recommend the following breast cancer awareness guidelines:
• Begin screening mammograms between ages 40 and 44
• Continue annual mammograms from ages 45 to 54
• At age 55, women of average risk can continue annual or switch to biennial mammograms
• Screening should continue as long as a woman is in good health and expects to live another 10 years or more
For more information call Thibodaux Regional Cancer Institute at (985) 4934008, or visit thibodaux.com.
JOHN DOUCET
OYSTER BAYOU, 1893
October is an infamous month here in PoV Country. Though we have passed the peak of hurricane season, all of us know from experience that storms can form and strike even in the waning days of a season. In fact, it was 131years ago this month when one of the deadliest storms ever to strike the U.S. visited our unsuspecting coastline.
The Great October Storm of 1893 made landfall overnight on October 1st and 2nd. Known locally as “l’Ouragan de la Cheniere Caminada,” it was a severe, fast-moving hurricane that struck and inundated the large coastal fishing village of Cheniere Caminada, destroying the entire fishing fleet and nearly all the homes while killing half the village—over 800 souls. Across the entire coast, from the Atchafalaya to the Mississippi, total lives lost exceeded 1600. Accounting for boarders and other undocumented, the total lost is estimated at 2000.
Cheniere Caminada is located in Jefferson Parish, just west of Grand Isle. Many survivors of the 1893 hurricane found convenient resettlement just upstream in Leeville, Golden Meadow, and Côte Blanche in Lafourche Parish, where many descendent families still live 131 years later. Though the local name of the storm is borne by the village where the greatest loss of life occurred, it was not the only fishing village destroyed by the storm. In fact, the late 19th century Louisiana coast was punctuated with many smaller coastal fishing villages, often formed on a barrier island, or atop a coastal ridge, or just inside the mouth of a bayou on the natural levees.
One village built atop natural levees was Oyster Bayou in Terrebonne Parish. Catherine Cole, travel-writing for the New Orleans Daily Picayune just one year prior to the storm, described Oyster Bayou as “a winding uncertain oyster-reefed lane of salt water where sea-cat and sharks and big silver fish abound. It is only two miles long but a lugger has been known to take twenty-four hours or more in getting through it.” Her descriptions seem accurate still to this day: “On either side are sea marshes, a rotting, porous, fiddlereaten crust of half earth, half sand, sown thick with a rank, coarse growth of sea rushes sharp enough to stab a murderer to the heart…”
Oyster Bayou was an important passage for 19th century oyster luggers, as they sailed their heavy catches from saltwater reefs along the coast to packing plants in Morgan City. After leaving the dangerous coastal currents and tides, oystermen steered northward up Oyster Bayou to Four League Bay, where they were protected by Point au Fer Island to the south. From there, Morgan City lay just 15-20 miles north. My great-great grandfather took this trek likely many times. According to family history, he would “naviguait les huites” (“sail the oysters”) westward from his home base in Cheniere Caminada en route to the Morgan City wholesale market. During the 1893 storm, the walls of his homes collapsed in the tidal surge, but 62 persons saved themselves under the fallen roof. His three boats were saved, too: They were out at work when the storm hit or otherwise deliberately put to sea to avoid being wrecked ashore by the surge.
In the same way that the home of my great-great-grandfather was wrecked, the village
at Oyster Bayou, inhabitants of which he likely knew by family name as well as boat name, suffered the same fate. As the October 4th, 1893, edition of the Daily Picayune described it, “Oyster bayou had 30 inhabitants; now it has none.” Like many such storm-torn villages, it remains marked only by stumps of pilings that once supported camps, wharves, and work platforms.
The importance of Oyster Bayou as a fisherman’s passage between Gulf and inland waters was long known. Even before the great storm, fishermen petitioned the government to build a lighthouse for safe navigation. “There is no point on the coast where a light is more needed,” said the Daily Picayune in early 1893. In 1894, a petition called the bayou “the entrance inland for all small craft engaged in the oyster, fish, and other industries. The vessels, something over 300 in number, supplying the four oyster packers at Morgan City, pass through Oyster Bayou. Vessels frequently attempt to make the bayou at night, and lacking a light to indicate the entrance, sometimes sail 5 or 6 miles beyond it before discovering their mistake.” By 1904, a lighthouse was completed, with a lantern 47 feet above sea level and visible for eight miles.
Self-powered boats eventually carried their own lanterns (and now they carry GPS!), eliminating the need for the lighthouse at Oyster Bayou. When decommissioned in 1975, the structure was offered to a local historical society. But, regrettably, our preservation infrastructure in PoV country lacks funding for such projects. With no takers, the Coast Guard burned the lighthouse down. In a real way, however, that burn event was not the last “illumination” of the lighthouse, for it befalls us to remember and retell such stories--even after 131 years and many catastrophic storms. I hope our greatgreat-grandfathers would be pleased enough with just that. POV
The Foundation for Terrebonne General Health System hosts this annual event to support mission critical services such as lifesaving screenings, advocating for healthier communities, improving patient care, and working for equitable health for all people. This year ’s event celebrates the 70th Anniversary of Terrebonne General Health System. Entertainment provided by Nonc Nu and Da Wild Matou. Tickets are $65 and can be purchased online.
Brews and Boos: A Witching Hour
Bar Crawl
October 5, 6-9 p.m.
Downtown Thibodaux
Join the ladies of AMPL!FY for a witching hour bar crawl in Downtown Thibodaux! Dress in your best witchy outfit and arrive by broom! Wristbands are on sale for $10 and can be purchased online.
Paddle Bayou Lafourche
October 12
Bayou Lafourche
This event offers an immersive and unique view of Bayou Lafourche and a chance to explore one of the most important waterways of our estuary. Participants can choose between a 15-mile or 9.5-mile paddle. Both paddles will end at the Nicholls Bayou Side Park pavilion in Thibodaux. The paddle will be followed with free food and refreshments, and live music by the Cajun Music Preservation Society at the pavilion. This year ’ s registration is $50 per paddler, and $20 for paddlers 12 and under. Registration and regulations can be found online.
Fletcher Fall Fest & Trunk or Treat
October 18, 4-7 p.m.
Fletcher Technical Community College, Schriever
This family-friendly event includes a petting zoo, carnival games with prizes,
Trunk-R-Treat, food trucks, inflatables, and so much more! Entry fee is one nonperishable food item to be contributed to Fletcher Student Food Pantry.
Houma Pumpkin Patch
October 19-20 & 26-27
Living Word Church, Schriever
Bring your family to Houma’s largest Pumpkin Patch! This family-friendly patch includes pumpkins, hayrides, live music, food, and so much more! Each weekend includes different special activities. Be sure to follow them on Facebook for more information!
Light Up the Night
October 25, 6-10 p.m.
Memorial Park, Downtown Houma
Enjoy an evening under the stars, as the elegance of white linen night makes its way to the bayou! Enjoy a unique live music experience with "The Violinist" vs. the DJ, featuring the incredible Shaun Ward Experience. Wear all white and get ready to indulge in a charming Al Fresco dining experience. Proceeds from "Light Up the Night" will benefit local nonprofits in Houma, so you can give back while enjoying an extraordinary night. Tickets can be purchased online and start at $45.
Monsters on Main
October 25, 5-7 p.m.
Downtown Thibodaux
Join Thibodaux Main Street for a spooktacular trick-or-treating event in Downtown Thibodaux! Ghosts and ghouls of all ages can enjoy this free Halloween experience, collecting treats and participating in fun activities in a safe & festive atmosphere. It ’ s a bewitching night of family fun - costumes encouraged!
Family Fall Festival
October 26, 4-7 p.m.
Chick-fil-A East Houma
Join Chick-fil-A for their annual Family Fall Festival! This free festival includes face painting, a petting zoo, and a costume contest. Stop by for familyfriendly fun! POV
7. Added pelican statue to dresser 8. Removed paint stain on palette
