Register

First Families of Louisiana

Register of First Families residing within the borders of present-day Louisiana during the colonial period. The colonial period is defined through 20 December 1803 (the date the U.S. flag was raised in New Orleans). Additional families are currently being researched for possible inclusion.

If you believe that a Family should be added to the register, please email melissa.collins@laghs.com with supporting documentation.

Do you descend from a First Family of Louisiana?

If you are a descendant, you are eligible to receive a certificate. The certificate will have the name of the First Family, your name, and the seal of the LGHS.

Get your certificate

Indigenous Tribes

Register of Native American tribes residing within the borders of present-day Louisiana at the time of European contact through early colonization (defined by the building of Nuestra Señora del Pilar de los Adaes Presidio in 1721 to check French expansion after the establishment of the Fort St. Jean Baptiste des Natchitoches).

Founding Fathers

Register of Founding Fathers and their descendants. Founding Fathers explored and governed settlements including Indigenous villages in the colony through Governor Bienville’s last term in 1743.

First Families

Register of colonial families who resided in Louisiana during the colonial period and their descendants.

Creoles

Register of Creoles born in Louisiana during the colonial period and their descendants.

Cajuns

Register of Acadians who settled in Louisiana during the colonial period and their descendants.

Manilamen

Register of Filipinos who settled in Louisiana before the end of the Civil War and their descendants.

Slaves

Register of Slaves who resided in Louisiana before the end of the Civil War and their descendants.