The Imperial Calcasieu Museum will be closed from December 22-26th and December 30th to January 1st. We apologize for the inconvenience this may cause.

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Spaces & Galleries

At the Imperial Calcasieu Museum, every space tells a story. From contemporary art to centuries-old artifacts, our galleries invite you to explore the creativity, culture, and history of Southwest Louisiana. Beyond exhibitions, our spaces are available for private celebrations, community gatherings, workshops, and professional meetings—each offering a setting as unique as the stories we preserve.

Regional History Gallery

Your visit begins in the Regional History Gallery, where the story of Imperial Calcasieu comes to life. This permanent collection of artifacts and memorabilia depicts everyday life from the Attakapas and other Native American tribes to the world wars and beyond.

Each display helps visitors understand the place we live while discovering their own story within the region’s past. The gallery features:

  • Period furniture from historic local homes

  • Relics from the Great Fire of 1910

  • Frontier clothing and tools from early settlers

  • Native American artwork and pottery

  • Rotating history exhibits tied to the community’s heritage, including our annual Mardi Gras display

The Regional History Gallery offers a compelling entry point for both history enthusiasts and casual visitors, setting the tone for the Museum’s blend of cultural preservation and community storytelling.

Gibson-Barham Gallery 

Step into our signature 2,500 sq. ft. exhibition space, where creativity and culture thrive year-round. The Gibson-Barham Gallery hosts rotating visual arts and cultural exhibits featuring local, national, and international artists. Each exhibition is educationally driven and self-curated, designed to expand the art community in the region while fostering deep public engagement. 

This is also the home of our Branch Out Summer Camp, where young artists explore their creativity through hands-on projects inspired by the art and history around them. The Gallery also proudly hosts the Calcasieu Parish K–12 Art Students Juried Show, a one-of-a-kind event showcasing the talent and vision of our area’s future artists. 

With its elegant design and rich programming, the Gibson-Barham Gallery offers a stunning backdrop for large gatherings, receptions, and special events. 

Gibson Library & Gift Shoppe 

Tucked inside the Museum, the Gibson Library & Gift Shoppe is a warm, inspiring space where creativity and conversation meet. 

  • Showcasing original works from more than 20 talented local artists 
  • Offering unique, handcrafted gifts that celebrate the spirit of Southwest Louisiana 
  • A cozy, versatile space ideal for intimate workshops, small meetings, or private gatherings 

Ripples Gallery 

Located in the Museum’s front hallway, the Ripples Gallery is a permanent exhibit exploring the history of Imperial Calcasieu Parish through its waterways: 

  • From hand-pulled ferries and historic steamboats to modern ships powering the nation’s 10th busiest port 
  • Showcasing artifacts, photographs, and stories that reveal how water shaped the region’s economy, culture, and daily life 

Hall of Heroes Gallery

In the Museum’s back hallway, the Hall of Heroes stands as a powerful tribute to the courage and sacrifice of the United States military. 

  • Chronicles the courageous legacy of the United States military 
  • Spanning from the Civil War to World War I and the pivotal battles of World War II 
  • Special highlight: Louisiana legend General Claire Lee Chennault, renowned leader of the Flying Tigers 

The Annex 

An additional building on the north side of the Museum that expands our reach and collaboration. 

  • Hosts rotating exhibits and partnerships with other local museums 
  • Offers a quiet, adaptable space for professional board meetings or small gatherings 

The Grounds & Sallier Oak

Step outside and you’ll find that our history doesn’t stop at the door.

  • Explore steel sculptures by Lynda Benglis, adding a bold, contemporary element to the Museum grounds
  • Stand beneath the Sallier Oak, a 375-year-old live oak steeped in legend and heritage, believed to have been planted by Charles Sallier in 1783
  • Enjoy a serene, picturesque setting perfect for outdoor events, photography sessions, and cultural celebrations
  • Experience community gatherings under the Oak, from yoga sessions to art markets and other seasonal Museum events that bring people together in the shade of this historic landmark
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