Marcel Giraud’s Definitive Histories of French Louisiana
This article originally appeared in the French Quarter Journal. Diligently working for half his life, a meticulous French scholar laid a firm foundation for all future researchers in the multi-volume “The History of French Louisiana.” — By John S. Sledge I first encountered Marcel Giraud’s work in the spring of 1987. My friend Johnnie Andrews […]
From Shrimp Boats to Oil Rigs: The Evolving Maritime Economy of the Gulf
The Gulf, a vibrant body of water bordered by the United States, Mexico, and Cuba, has been a cornerstone of maritime activity for centuries. Its rich resources and strategic location have supported livelihoods, fueled economies, and driven technological advancements. From the early days of shrimp boats dotting the coastline to the towering oil rigs that […]
A Rousing New Anthology: The Gulf South
This article originally appeared in the French Quarter Journal. Even regional literary connoisseurs are likely to discover new favorites in the first powerhouse anthology of Gulf Coast environmental writing, edited by Tori Bush and Richard Goodman. -by John S. Sledge In his elegiac 2007 book, Terra Incognita: Photographs of America’s Third Coast, Richard Sexton wrote […]
Biodiversity and Ecosystem of the Mobile-Tensaw River Delta
The Mobile-Tensaw River Delta, located in southern Alabama, is a sprawling labyrinth of rivers, creeks, marshes, and bayous. This delta, often dubbed “America’s Amazon,” is one of the most biologically diverse regions in the United States. Spanning over 260,000 acres, it serves as a critical ecological hotspot, supporting a staggering array of plant and animal […]
The Sound of the Sea
This article originally appeared in the French Quarter Journal “Money before coin, jewelry before gems, art before canvas”: This delightful new book by environmental writer Cynthia Barnett explores the fascinating world of seashells. -by John S. Sledge During the 19th century, many New Orleans visitors took the short carriage drive out the famous Shell Road […]
A Kid’s Guide to the Ships of the Gulf Coast: Past and Present
The Gulf Coast has long been a hub of maritime activity, with ships of all kinds sailing its waters. From mighty vessels of the past to modern ships that keep the world connected, the Gulf’s maritime history is packed with fascinating stories and incredible technology. This guide is designed for young explorers who want to […]
George Washington Cable: A Writer with Charm, Grace, and a Touch of Fire
This article originally appeared in the French Quarter Journal More than 150 years since its publication, George Washington Cable’s Old Creole Days remains an essential New Orleans read. – by John S. Sledge He was a dapper little man fond of crisp white shirts, cuff links, frock coats and canes. Whenever time allowed, he loved […]
New Gálvez Biography Charts a Remarkable Life
This article originally appeared in the French Quarter Journal The general and governor of Spanish Louisiana who’s been “grossly overlooked by mainstream history in the United States” is the subject of a new book, Bernardo de Gálvez: Spanish Hero of the American Revolution by Gonzalo M. Quintero Saravia. – by John Sledge Don Bernardo […]
The Evolution of Containerization in Mobile Bay: From Local Port to Global Gateway
The evolution of containerization in Mobile Bay is a story of transformation, innovation, and strategic growth, turning this natural harbor into a major hub for global trade.