Preserving Louisiana’s Heritage: Dale Bordelon Honored for Keeping Generations of Tradition Alive

LAFAYETTE, LOUISIANA — A LEGACY WORTH PASSING DOWN

Louisiana’s rich cultural heritage received a special recognition Oct. 10, as Dale Bordelon was presented with the Louisiana Tradition Bearer Award during Festivals Acadiens et Créoles in Lafayette. The statewide honor recognizes individuals dedicated to preserving Louisiana’s unique customs, skills and cultural knowledge for future generations. Bordelon was among six individuals selected this year, receiving recognition for his lifelong dedication to preserving the state’s traditional waterfowl hunting culture.

From a Christian perspective, Bordelon’s recognition reminds us that the traditions, talents and stories passed down through generations are gifts worth protecting. Scripture tells us in Psalm 145:4, “One generation shall praise thy works to another, and shall declare thy mighty acts.” While the verse speaks of declaring God’s works, it also reminds us of the importance of passing meaningful knowledge, wisdom and history from one generation to the next.

A CRAFTSMANSHIP ROOTED IN TRADITION

Following the presentation, Bordelon expressed his gratitude, saying, “I’m very honored to get this award.” During the festival, he demonstrated the traditional crafts of duck call making and decoy carving. Representatives from the Smithsonian Institution also filmed his work, bringing additional attention to Louisiana’s distinctive outdoor heritage.

His craftsmanship reaches far beyond making hunting equipment. Bordelon has dedicated himself to preserving traditional cane duck calls, cypress decoys, dugout pirogues and the stories behind these practices. Each handmade item represents generations of knowledge, patience and resourcefulness.

In Colossians 3:23, the Bible encourages believers, “And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men.” Bordelon’s commitment demonstrates how dedication to one’s craft can become a meaningful way to honor the past and serve future generations.

STORIES THAT KEEP OUR HISTORY ALIVE

Bordelon is also preparing a book, expected next year, featuring a century of hunting stories and firsthand accounts collected from Louisiana hunting camps and familiar gathering places, including local gas station hangouts.

One memorable story comes from Avoyelles Parish in 1932. A 12-year-old boy dreamed of owning a $26 Winchester shotgun sold at Guy Prevot’s store in Mansura. Unable to afford the purchase, the young hunter was given an opportunity to take the shotgun home and pay for it with cleaned mallard ducks.

The boy accepted the arrangement and paid off the shotgun before hunting season ended. Prevot operated a store with an icebox where game meat could be sold, making the arrangement beneficial for both.

It was more than a story about a young boy getting his first shotgun. It reflected a time when neighbors trusted one another, communities found practical solutions and people made the most of what they had.

A HERITAGE THAT DESERVES TO BE PRESERVED

For those of us in “da parish,” Bordelon’s recognition is a source of genuine pride. His work reminds us that Louisiana’s heritage is not simply something found in history books. It lives in the people, stories, craftsmanship and traditions that continue to shape our communities.

Deuteronomy 6:6-7 encourages families to teach important lessons to their children and speak of them throughout daily life. That principle speaks directly to the importance of preserving our heritage and making sure younger generations understand where they came from.

Bordelon’s award celebrates more than one man’s accomplishments. It recognizes the importance of remembering our roots, appreciating those who came before us and investing in the generations still to come.

A PRAYER FOR OUR COMMUNITY

Heavenly Father,

We thank You for the people You place in our communities who dedicate their lives to preserving our history, traditions and values. We thank You for Dale Bordelon and the gifts, knowledge and passion You have given him.

Lord, bless him as he continues his work, shares his stories and prepares his book for future generations. May his efforts inspire young people to appreciate their heritage, respect those who came before them and recognize the value of hard work, craftsmanship and community.

We also lift up the families, elders and communities whose stories and traditions are at risk of being forgotten. Give us hearts that cherish our history and a willingness to teach our children the lessons of faith, family, friendship and fellowship.

May Louisiana’s communities remain places where neighbors help one another, generations learn from one another and Your love is reflected in the way we treat those around us.

In Jesus’ mighty name, we pray.

Amen.