The Dorcheat Historical Association and Museum will host its next Night at the Museum program on May 18 with a presentation on O.S. Strickland, founder of one of the nation’s earliest Black-owned oil companies.
Dr. Mary Barrett, professor emeritus of geology at Centenary College of Louisiana, will present the program, which will focus on the life and work of O.S. Strickland, the driving force behind Universal Oil and Gas Company.
According to event organizers, Universal Oil and Gas Company was among the first Black-owned oil companies in the United States, making Strickland a notable figure in both regional and national business history.
The monthly museum program is open to the public with free admission, though donations are encouraged to support the museum’s ongoing work.
Doors will open at 5:30 PM. Guests are invited to enjoy potluck snacks and desserts before the presentation begins.
Museum officials noted that seating is limited and encouraged attendees to arrive early.
Night at the Museum is part of the Dorcheat Museum’s continuing effort to share local and state history through educational presentations featuring scholars, researchers, and community historians.