The LSU Rural Life Museum invites you to the annual Ione E. Burden Symposium.

"Smugglers, Scoundrels, & Scalawags: Unveiling the Colorful Characters of Louisiana and the American South"

Featuring renowned experts offering insights into the captivating characters that have shaped the colorful and often turbulent history of Louisiana through legacy and legend alike.

 Featured Speakers:

·        Samuel C. Hyde, Jr., Ph.D. holds the Leon Ford Endowed Chair, is a Professor of History, and serves as the Director of the Center for Southeast Louisiana Studies at Southeastern Louisiana University. With eleven books to his credit, including the award-winning "Pistols and Politics," Dr. Hyde brings a wealth of knowledge to explore the sources of sustained brutality in Louisiana's Florida Parishes.

Dr. Hyde will present "Feuds, Factions, and the Struggle for Order in Louisiana's Florida Parishes: Endemic Violence in America's Most Dangerous Rural Region."

·        Del Hahn, a retired FBI Special Agent and Private Investigator, takes attendees on a riveting journey through the life and death of Barry Seal, offering unique insights into the world of smuggling. With a career spanning intelligence, law enforcement, and private investigation, Hahn's perspective promises a compelling narrative.

Mr. Hahn will present "Smuggler’s End: The Life and Death of Barry Seal"

·        Dr. Keagan LeJeune, Department Head of English and Foreign Languages at McNeese State University, is a prolific folklorist and author. His presentation delves into the economic role of outlaws in early Louisiana society, exploring the niche they filled in merchant capitalistic systems. Dr. LeJeune's latest book, "Finding Myself Lost in Louisiana," takes the audience on a journey through the state's most fascinating places, offering a unique perspective on Louisiana's rich folklore and history.

Dr. LeJeune will present on "Legends of Louisiana: Outlaws, Smuggling, and the Cursed Coochie Brake."

$45.00 General Admission

$30.00 Friends of the LSU Rural Life Museum,

Docents, Faculty & Students of Louisiana Universities (ID required)

Admission includes lunch, speakers reception and museum admission.