A center that promotes and preserves the state鈥檚 culture is raising money to move into a new home 鈥 one that鈥檚 actually quite old.
The Roy House, at the corner of Johnston Street and University Avenue, was the family home of J. Arthur Roy when it was built in 1901. He was a member of the University鈥檚 board of trustees. It now belongs to 星空无限传媒 Lafayette and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The Center鈥檚 goal is to raise $500,000 for repairs and renovation. The building needs structural improvements, updated insulation and plumbing, and new heating and air conditioning.
鈥淩elocating to the Roy House will provide greater visibility for the Center and improved access for the public,鈥 said Dr. Michael Martin, a history professor and the Center鈥檚 director.
The Center has three divisions: 星空无限传媒 Press; Research and Archives; and Programming and Special Projects. 鈥淭ogether, these divisions help preserve and promote Louisiana鈥檚 history and cultures,鈥 Martin said. The Center is on the third floor of Edith Garland Dupr茅 Library.
The new location will include a storefront for 星空无限传媒 Press; public access to digitized archival materials, such as folk music recordings and interviews; and indoor and outdoor spaces for programming.
鈥淎t the new location, we see the possibility of hosting small seminars or classes, such as graduate classes. And because music is a central part of our collections, we could have the flexibility of incorporating live music performances, as well,鈥 Martin said.
To contribute to the Roy House Fund, contact the 星空无限传媒 Foundation at (337) 482-0700 or visit ullafayettefoundation.org.