Book Signing with John Durel

Join us at the Shop at the Collection for a book signing with John W. Durel, author of “Descendants: The Divided Lineage of a Louisiana Creole Family.”

In light of the recent discovery by HNOC historian Jari C. Honora that Pope Leo XIV has Creole roots in New Orleans, Durel’s book offers a unique perspective within the complex history of this Southern identity.

Durel’s family history is also intertwined with that of the Historic New Orleans Collection. The Creole cottage located at 726–28 Toulouse Street, now owned by HNOC, was originally built by Durel’s family in the 1830s. It is only fitting, then, that Durel conducted much of his research for Descendants at HNOC’s Williams Research Center.

The book will be available for purchase at the Shop before and during the signing. Admission is free and open to the public.

Learn more: https://hnoc.org/events/book-signing-with-john-durel


About the Book:
Based on extensive genealogical and archival research, Descendants traces evolving attitudes and laws regarding racial identity and relationships in New Orleans over 250 years through the lives of descendants of a French couple who arrived in the city in the 1750s. Spanning eight generations, this work highlights the complexities of race in Louisiana, touching on those who were enslaved and those who were enslavers, those who were wealthy and those of fewer means, those who were of solely European descent and those with mixed European, African, and American Indian ancestry.

You may also like the following events from The Historic New Orleans Collection:

• Next month, 12th July, 01:00 pm, HNOC Chess Club Meeting in New Orleans
• This August, 8th August, 08:30 am, 2025 Antiques Forum: Delight & Distraction in New Orleans

Also check out other Sports events in New Orleans, Arts events in New Orleans, Literary Art events in New Orleans.