D’Iberville Historical Society celebrates 20 Years of preserving history

D’IBERVILLE, Miss. (WXXV) — A special celebration took place in D’Iberville on Wednesday night, as the city’s historical society marked 20 years since its inception.

Members of the D’Iberville Historical Society gathered for an evening of stories and remarks, celebrating two decades of preserving and honoring their city’s rich history.

“From the early days it was so humbling, because it was just beginning. As it moved forward, I seen it grow and get bigger and bigger, more and more important people became involved, and even the citizens – they ask questions, and it’s made us feel like we’re important. So, as we evolved, we knew we were standing on a stronger foundation as the years went by,” RJ Deno, Former President of the D’Iberville Historical Society.

The historical society was created in 2006, following Hurricane Katrina, which destroyed many pieces of D’Iberville’s history. In the aftermath of the storm, community members came together with a shared goal: to preserve what remained of the city’s past while also documenting and protecting its history for future generations.

“We have come a long way and we’ve done many great things. We love the city of D’Iberville, and we’re so proud to be able to preserve its past, because everybody who lives in the city of D’Iberville, especially the old folks, we’re proud of our heritage, and that’s what we’re happy to bring forward and celebrate tonight. Especially the early years, because when you celebrate the early years, it lets people know how far we’ve come to today,” said Deno.

A display at the D’Iberville Visitors Center highlighted the society’s early years through photos, videos and historical documents.

Current president, Keith Wilson, says that over the past 20 years, the society has continued to grow and make its mark on the coast. Through its historical marker program, the group has unveiled nine markers across the city over the last decade — preserving The Gateway City’s history while also helping promote tourism.

“When you take the history that we have tried to preserve and you put it in front of you in a monumental way – like we have our cross and boulder at the town green, we have bricks that have family names across them, and then we have our historical marker program that we do – each one of those preserves a different story that we’re hoping will stay around for years to come,” said Wilson.

The D’Iberville Historical Society is always looking for more members who are interested in telling the city’s stories and preserving its extensive history. Click here for more information.