Theodore Roosevelt Association Explores TR’s Legacy in New Orleans during 2026 Public Historian Tour
June 22, 2026
From the bustling French Quarter to the historic grounds of Avery Island, members of the Theodore Roosevelt Association (TRA) spent five memorable days from May 28, 2026 to June 1, 2026 exploring the culture, history, and unexpected TR connections of Louisiana during the TRA’s 2026 Public Historian Tour to New Orleans led by TRA Public Historian Dr. Michael Cullinane.
The Crescent City lived up to its reputation. Food and drink were abundant, hospitality was unmistakably Southern, and around nearly every corner participants discovered reminders of Theodore Roosevelt’s enduring influence.
Over the course of the trip, TRA members traveled more than 130 miles across Louisiana, experiencing everything from the famed Tabasco Factory on Avery Island to the lively cobblestones of Bourbon Street. Participants were headquartered in the heart of the French Quarter at the site of the former French Opera House, where the sounds of drums and music provided a constant soundtrack to the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
The adventure began with an evening gathering at the hotel before the group enjoyed a welcome dinner at Mambo’s, featuring fresh Louisiana seafood. Later, members made their way to the Mississippi River to admire the tall ships visiting New Orleans as part of the national Sail 250 celebrations. Illuminated by thousands of lights, the vessels created a striking display along the riverfront.
The second day began with a guided nature walk through Audubon Park. Towering live oaks—many predating the founding of the United States—lined the pathways as participants observed Louisiana’s rich birdlife. A great egret stood motionless like a marble statue before taking flight, while an anhinga spread its wings to dry in the morning sun before diving into the water in search of fish. Guided by a local naturalist, the walk offered a unique glimpse into the region’s natural environment.
The group then embarked on a culinary tour of the French Quarter, sampling many of New Orleans’ signature dishes. Stops included smoked shrimp and crab boudin at Bourbon House, barbecue oysters at Red Fish Grill, muffuletta from Central Grocery, pralines from the New Orleans School of Cooking, and gumbo at Tableau.
That afternoon brought an extraordinary opportunity. Through the generosity of Lt. Gen. Len Anderson, commander of the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve, members were invited to visit historic LaBouf Plantation. Anderson personally guided the group through his residence, a structure whose preservation can be credited to Theodore Roosevelt’s intervention more than a century ago.
The day’s surprises continued with a special tour of the USS Farragut, one of the active-duty U.S. Navy destroyers participating in Sail 250 festivities. Led by Boatswain Elvis, a charismatic petty officer whose enthusiasm impressed all aboard, members spent an hour exploring the vessel and learning about modern naval operations.
On the third day, participants traveled to Avery Island near New Iberia. Although the two-and-a-half-hour bus ride over Louisiana’s famously uneven roads proved memorable in its own right, the destination more than rewarded the journey. The group received a private presentation from Tabasco historian Shane Bernard, enjoyed lunch at the 1868 Restaurant, and toured the museum dedicated to one of America’s most iconic brands. Time passed quickly before the return trip to New Orleans and an elegant three-course dinner at Red Fish Grill.
The final full day featured a visit to the acclaimed National WWII Museum. Another fortunate connection introduced the group to the museum’s Executive Director, Dr. (Col.) Mike Bell, who personally guided members through many of the institution’s remarkable exhibits and artifacts. As at Avery Island, many wished they had more time to explore.
The expedition concluded appropriately at the historic Hotel Roosevelt, where participants gathered in the legendary Sazerac Bar for a final cocktail. The venue, once frequented by figures such as Marilyn Monroe and Huey Long, provided a fitting setting to reflect on the experiences of the previous days.
Beyond the sites visited and meals shared, the trip offered something even more meaningful: fellowship. Members traveled from across the country—including Wisconsin, Texas, Kentucky, New York, North Dakota, Florida, Ohio, and Virginia—to celebrate Theodore Roosevelt’s life and legacy together.
New Orleans is not a city commonly associated with Theodore Roosevelt. Yet throughout the journey, participants discovered that Roosevelt’s influence remained surprisingly visible and deeply woven into the region’s history. The expedition served as a reminder that Theodore Roosevelt’s reach extended far beyond the places most often associated with him—and that his legacy continues to be found in unexpected corners of America.
The Theodore Roosevelt Association extends its sincere thanks to Dr. Michael Cullinane, whose leadership, planning, and coordination made this unforgettable expedition possible. Through his expertise and careful organization, members enjoyed a rich and rewarding experience that combined history, culture, fellowship, and the enduring legacy of Theodore Roosevelt.