katrina archives

We stopped to see the Friendship Oak and walked over to the library, went to the third floor, and saw a display of photos regarding William Faulkner. We went to room 301/302 as was directed in the lobby and the nice lady in office 302 said whatever was on display here was moved to the "ground zero" display in Waveland. So, there is nothing here to see other than some plates decorated by local children. The nice lady said she close this account but in case she hasn't, no need to go in here unless you need to use a rest room or something. (They are straight in back, by the elevator)

Found our stop at the Katrina Research Center, Katrina Archives, to be a very interesting and sobering event well worth the time to visit. We were the only vistors at the time of our visit and had plenty of time to absorb the educational and artistic energies that are shared at The University of Southern Mississippi Gulf Coast library. If you are going to be in the area and can spend more time than I could they have an absolutely staggering compilation of research material including books, logs, videos and photographs. I highly recommend this fabulous archive. Spend some time reflecting under "The Friendship" Oak before you leave.

If you want to understand the impact the hurricane had on the coast this is the only place to look. USM has done an outstanding job!!

I live through Katrina, it was most devastating and life altering. I enjoyed, yet with sadness the time and energy put into this archive. It is educational and filled with awe of what mother nature can do to a community. What a respectful and heartfelt way to pay respects to this tragedy and those who lost their life. Worth the time..Free admission. public computers (with internet) available at the entrance. Students are evident, shhhh!

The University of Southern Mississippi Gulf Coast library (on the Long Beach campus, far building on the left) has archives of Hurricane Katrina on their third floor: currently on view are dozens of hurricane-untouched plates recovered from the school dining room and given to local elementary students for art projects of their choice, and a collection of tee-shirts autographed by some of the many volunteers who helped re-build. There is also a traveling exhibit from the Smithsonian Institution, multi-media on American travelers (immigrants, pioneers, etc.) and, on the second floor, a room devoted to Gufl Park College (woman's junior college which once occupied this campus.) Free admission. And, there are public computers (with internet connection) available at the entrance. Students are in evidence, so keep it quiet.