The RICHARD J. CATALON CREOLE HERITAGE AWARD
Vermilionville is now accepting nominees for the 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:
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Ambassador or Promoter of the Creole Culture or heritage;
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Involvement in local cultural organization(s);
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Depicting character values as a role model for future generations.
To date eighteen 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 (vermilionville.org). The deadline for submitting a name for consideration is May 7, 2023. This year’s Catalon award recipient will be announced leading up to our annual Creole Culture Day Celebration at Vermilionville on June 11, 2023. 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.
Catalon Award
This is the Nomination Form for the Annual Richard J Catalon Creole Heritage Award
If you would like to print a copy of the nomination form out, you can do so here.
Thank you for your consideration in this important cultural award.
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The Vermilionville Living History Museum and Folklife park provide a wonderful educational experience for adults and children alike. Book a tour today.
Weddings
Weddings can feature a variety of appetizer items, banquet style meals, a barbecue or crawfish boil offered through our on-site catering department.
Rentals
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Experience
Experience some of the main attractions at Vermilionville such as Historic Homes, and immerse yourself in the rich history of Acadiana
Shop
Vermilionville’s gift shop, La Boutique, offers a unique selection of Cajun, Creole and Native American arts and crafts, as well as literature and music CD’s from the area.
Dine
Be honest : you’re here because you’re craving something authentic, right? And by the grace of good taste, you’ve found yourself at our kitchen.
Educate
Education is a main focus at Vermilionville. We strive to offer an educational and entertaining outing for students referred to as Cultural Excursions.
Photography
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