Sybil Kein Papers

The papers of writer and musician Sybil Kein document her academic, literary and musical careers, and include correspondence, writings, publications, news clippings, periodicals, audiocassettes, compact discs, photographs and collected materials. Her papers document her interest in Louisiana Creole poetry and culture. Of note are over 300 black and white photograph prints by Leo Touchet of New Orleans parades and second lines. Kein also donated a drum, which is tentatively dated circa 1790 and is believed to have been used in New Orleans’ Congo Square, a gathering place for enslaved Africans.

Kein’s published works and writings include An American South (1996), Bessie, Bojangles, and Me (1974), Des Gardenias et Roses (1986), Gombo People (1981), Get Together (1970), and other works of poetry. Of note is Gombo People, which is the first published book entirely written in Louisiana Creole. Ephemera include program and festival information pertaining to New Orleans, and articles and magazines regarding Kein’s influential literary and musical works. The collection also includes audiovisual materials that showcase Kein’s musical career. Recordings include Sérénade Créole (1986), Creole Ballads and Zydeco (1996), Maw-Maw’s Creole Lullaby and Other Songs for Children (1997) and Carnevale: Songs of Fantasy and Longing (2004).