The Iberia African American Historical Society
Center for Research and Learning
HOURS
Thursday - Saturday
10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
CONTACT
Breighlyn M. Polk, Executive Director
(337) 352-2662
BPolk@IAAHSOnline.org
LOCATION
320 E. Main Street, New Iberia
2nd Floor of Shadows Visitor Center
The Iberia African American Historical Society Center for Research and Learning fosters a sense of community by establishing a dedicated space to collect, preserve, and share the true and inclusive history of historical and present-day Iberia Parish. Guided by the IAAHS Society’s motto, “Celebrating the true and inclusive history of Iberia Parish,” the Center serves as both a community anchor and a research hub for descendants, scholars, students, and the general public.
The Center for Research and Learning accomplishes its mission through
robust community engagement;
the acquisition and digitization of records, objects, and photographs that reflect the lived experiences of Black communities in Iberia Parish;
and the stewardship of an archive that is accessible both physically and virtually.
Through these efforts, the Center ensures that local African American history is preserved, interpreted, and made available for future generations.
The Center for Research and Learning is also a FamilySearch Affiliate Library, providing visitors with free access to expanded genealogical records and research tools not available from home. As an Affiliate Library, the Center supports individuals and families seeking to research their ancestry, build family trees, and connect with their roots using trusted genealogical resources.
While visiting the Center, guests are encouraged to explore the permanent exhibit “The Second Side: A Historical Retelling of African American History in Iberia Parish,” which centers community voices, local memory, and overlooked narratives that have shaped the parish.
For inquiries, appointments, or research assistance, please contact the IAAHS office at 337-352-2662 or via email at bpolk@iaahsonline.org.
This project was made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services.
