Native American
United Houma Tribe

By Dr. Hiram F. "Pete" Gregory

A state-recognized tribal community, the Houma live primarily in Terrebonne and Lafourche Parishes around the towns of Montagne and Dulac. The Houma are among the strongest Francophone communities in Louisiana and retain many aboriginal cultural traits. Palmetto weaving, wood carving, and herbalism are still very important in the community. The tribe maintains crafts classes and school programs and oversees their efforts to gain federal tribal recognition.

Houma Folk Artists:

Basketry

Marie Billiot Dean - Palmetto Basketmaker

Boats

Lawrence "Moot" Billiot - Boat Maker

Carving

Ivy Billiot - Wood Carver and Blowgun Maker

Roy A. Parfait - Wood Carver

Wildlife, Fishing, Hunting, and Trapping

Ivy Billiot - Woodcarver & Blowgun Maker