A 48-foot wooden shrimp trawler; a Civil War submarine; a record-breaking marlin; a krewe of lawnmowers; a Lucky Dog cart; and musical artifacts from Fats Domino, Buddy Guy, Clarence Gatemouth Brown and Aaron Neville – it’s all at the Louisiana State Museum-Baton Rouge.  Now, with the formation of the Louisiana State Museum Friends, there are more opportunities to get involved with this treasured facility.

In 2009, several dedicated community members came together to see how they could help support this Louisiana treasure. Their efforts resulted in the Louisiana State Museum Friends, a non-profit organization, whose mission is to support the Louisiana State Museum-Baton Rouge’s educational exhibits and programming through membership, volunteerism, financial support and other resources.

Membership benefits include free admission to all museums in the Office of State Museums system; invitations to exhibit openings, museum programs, and special events; a 10-percent discount in the Museum store; as well as volunteer opportunities and exclusive Friends functions.

A membership drive kicks off with a reception on Sept. 7 from 6-8 p.m. at the Louisiana State Museum–Baton Rouge.  All are welcome to come learn more about the LSM Friends and the Louisiana State Museum.  As a special treat, the evening will include the unveiling of a portrait of General Philemon Thomas (1763-1847), which was last on display in 1976. Thomas is best known for leading the troops that stormed Fort San Carlos in Baton Rouge, ushering in the West Florida Republic in 1810.

“Reception attendees will have a first look at a piece of work returning to the Capital City after more than a century,” Frances Bennett, president of the Louisiana State Museum Friends, said. “In addition, guests will have the opportunity to get involved with this great museum and the Louisiana State Museum Friends.”

For information on joining Louisiana State Museum Friends, e-mail lsmfriends@gmail.com or call 225.342.5428.