What was Louisiana like so many decades ago? Now, thanks to some archives provided by Yale University, we can explore what life was like during this time—and it is simply mind blowing. We think these photos will fascinate you, because they capture life in a way many other things cannot.

1. Bags of threshed rice, Crowley
Yale.edu / Russell Lee
This town has always been the rice capital of Louisiana.
2. Remains of sawmill in Fullerton
Yale.edu / Dorothea Lange
There's some real beauty to be discovered here.
3. Sharecropper’s house, Plaquemines Parish
Yale.edu / Arthur Rothstein
There's some gorgeous country construction!
4. Experimental sugar cane developed to be resistant to mosaic disease, Plaquemines Parish
Yale.edu / Arthur Rothstein
Summertime...and the sugar cane is high!
5. Creole Girls, Plaquemines Parish
Yale.edu / Ben Shahn
I wish we could hear what song she was playing. (What kind of instrument is that?)

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6. Outside a Restaurant, Amite City
Yale.edu / Ben Shahn
The hairstyles and fashion are so awesome.
7. Stolen Harmony, Amite City
Yale.edu / /Ben Shahn
Does anyone know the history of this band?
8. Storefront in Kenner
Yale.edu / Russell Lee
I wonder what that 666 tonic is…and I'm glad to see that Barqs sign! Looks the same!
9. Palm house and shacks along drainage canal near Hammond
Yale.edu / Carl Mydans
Wow. What a picture perfect Louisiana swamp cabin scene.
10. Roadside sandwich shop, Pontchatoula
Yale.edu / Walker Evans
I suppose before there was Bluebell, there was Bluebird! Who knew?

Which of these photos was your favorite? Did you have one in particular that really excited you? Let us know in the comments below! We love to hear your feedback and ideas.

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