The Walker Museum first opened its doors as a temporary exhibit during the town's Centennial Celebration in July 2009. The cultural attraction proved so popular that Walker Mayor Bobby Font promised to make it permanent.

The museum is located in the heart of Walker in the historic home of William Aydell Sr. and Suzanne K. Aydell, whose family generously loaned the house for the museum until a permanent location can be found for it. The historic home is the perfect site for the collection, with its oak floors and heart-of-pine walls.

The museum houses a vast collection of artifacts documenting the town's rich history, including items from the old general merchandise store, the original saw blades from the saw mill and the original post office window and postal boxes, among hundreds of other items. Also on display is an oral history featuring some of Walker's oldest families sharing their experiences.

Residents of Walker generously have loaned their memorabilia and photographs to share with the community, making the museum possible.

The museum also houses a community art gallery, where Livingston Parish artists can display their works. The town also plans to offer community classes there.

The Walker Museum is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays, and on special occasions as needed. Admission is free. For more information, call The Town of Walker at 225-665-4356.

A community meeting place

The Walker Museum & Community Art Gallery has space available for small groups, clubs and organizations, classes or meetings to gather free of charge during the day or evenings when the facility is not in use. To book the museum, call 225-665-4356 during regular business hours Monday through Thursday.