HISTORIC HASLEY: Secrets From The Grave

Last year, the Ouachita Parish Public Library’s Genealogy and Special Collections Department applied for and won a Rebirth Public Library grant* from the National Endowment for the Humanities. Our project was to create a virtual cemetery tour of some of the burials in Hasley cemetery, West Monroe. The fruits of that labor are now available to the public. … Continue reading HISTORIC HASLEY: Secrets From The Grave →

Rev. Billy Head

This pastor is one of the most fascinating figures in Ouachita Parish history. He was born into slavery. He became one of the most trusted servants in the home he was forced to serve in. After freedom came, he was one of the very few former slaves who could read and write. He founded schools … Continue reading Rev. Billy Head →