Museum founders Paul Schexnayder and Becky Schexnayder Owens conceived of the Bayou Teche Museum in 1992. With the help of Alfred “Smitty” Landry, they formed the nonprofit New Iberia Museum Foundation. Over time, many dedicated board members, elected officials, and volunteers made it possible to open the Bayou Teche Museum’s doors in 2010. It is through our community’s generous spirit that this rich area is showcased to visitors from around the world, and its history and culture will be preserved for generations to come.