A center that promotes and preserves the state’s culture is raising money to move into a new home — one that’s 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’s board of trustees. It now belongs to UL Lafayette and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The Center’s 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.
“Relocating to the Roy House will provide greater visibility for the Center and improved access for the public,” said Dr. Michael Martin, a history professor and the Center’s director.
The Center has three divisions: UL Press; Research and Archives; and Programming and Special Projects. “Together, these divisions help preserve and promote Louisiana’s history and cultures,” Martin said. The Center is on the third floor of Edith Garland Dupré Library.
The new location will include a storefront for UL Press; public access to digitized archival materials, such as folk music recordings and interviews; and indoor and outdoor spaces for programming.
“At 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,” Martin said.
To contribute to the Roy House Fund, contact the University of Louisiana at Lafayette Foundation at (337) 482-0700 or visit ullafayettefoundation.org.