Vermilionville is now accepting nominees for the 20th annual Richard J. Catalon Sr. Creole Heritage Award. This prestigious award was established in 2004 honoring one of the museum’s first artisan interpreters, Richard J. Catalon, Sr. Shortly after retirement Mr. Catalon become engaged in his “dream job” at Vermilionville, which created opportunities for him to share his life experiences as a Creole. For over ten years, Mr. Catalon worked in the Mouton House and regaled visitors from around the world with Creole history, often in his native French Creole language. He was known to visit local schools to promote understanding of Creole history, culture, and traditions, and to encourage the rediscovery Creole language. This award honors the contributions made by individuals who actively promote the advancement of the Creole Culture through language, food, art, music, dance, Creole language studies, education, and traditions. Individuals who demonstrate any of the following characteristics should apply or be nominated:

- Ambassador or Promoter of the Creole Culture or heritage;

- Involvement in local cultural organization(s);

- Depicting character values as a role model for future generations.

To date nineteen local individuals have received this award for their outstanding contributions in the community and the furtherance of the culture. Applications or on-line entries are available at the Vermilionville website (www.vermilionville.org). The deadline for submitting a name for consideration is May 24, 2024. This year's Catalon award recipient will be announced leading up to our annual Creole Culture Day Celebration at Vermilionville on June 9, 2024. On this day we will honor and recognize the award recipient at the 1:00 p.m. ceremony. Any questions regarding the application process please contact Vermilionville at (337) 233-4077.

Individuals are encouraged to submit an application or nominate an individual in helping to Move the Creole Culture Forward.

To nominate a candidate, CLICK HERE.