As Louisiana’s State Historic Preservation Officer, I am pleased to introduce
Preserving Louisiana’s Legacy, the fifth volume in the Anthropological
Study series of the Department of Culture, Recreation & Tourism and the
Louisiana Archaeological Survey & Antiquities Commission.
Through my work first in private business and more recently in local and
state government, I have become increasingly impressed with the diversity
and uniqueness of Louisiana’s archaeological remains. There is no question
that many of these archaeological sites should be preserved for the future.
They are Louisiana’s past.
Louisiana has some of the most important sites in the United States. In
fact, one prehistoric archaeological site, Poverty Point in West Carroll
Parish, has been suggested for nomination to the World Heritage List.
This program, in which 45 nations participate, recognizes areas of outstanding
universal value to mankind.
I am proud to live in a state with such a rich archaeological heritage,
and I hope that it can be protected for future generations. However, no
one individual or group working alone can preserve Louisiana’s legacy.
Only through the concerted efforts of government, industry, business, and
individuals can this be accomplished. This volume suggests what you can
do to preserve Louisiana’s archaeological sites. I hope you enjoy this
booklet.
Sincerely,
_Rob DeBlieux_
ROBERT B. DEBLIEUX
STATE HISTORIC PRESERVATION OFFICER