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Los Isleños Heritage and Cultural Society of St. Bernard was organized in 1976 to preserve, interpret, and promote the language, heritage, and cultural traditions of Canary Islanders who settled in Louisiana between 1778 and 1783.

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    Opening Hours

    Wednesday through Sunday from 11:00 a.m. ‒ 4:00 p.m. BY APPOINTMENT. See more...

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    Host an Event

    Rent our space for your wedding, party, or other gathering. Book now...

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    Where You Visit

    1357 Bayou Rd, St Bernard, LA 70085.
    Please park in the gravel parking lot next to El Museo de los Isleños (Los Isleños Museum).



Los Isleños Museum and Historic Village, known formally as Los Isleños Museum Complex, is composed of nine structures and includes a Houma Native American interprative area, marker to the Filipino presence in Louisiana, and nature trail. See more...


Who are the Isleños?

An Isleño (pronounced ees-LAYN-yoh) is a descendant of Canary Islanders who arrived in the territory of Louisiana during the late 18th century. Through their interaction with the natural environment and neighboring communities in the region, the Isleños of Louisiana have developed a unique identity and culture. A number of elderly Isleños speak Spanish as a first language and practice the customs of our ancestors.

The word isleño is Spanish for ‘Islander’ as in ‘Canary Islander’.

Isleños
Canarian Flag
NO PIERDAS LA OPORTUNIDAD

Upcoming Events

Seafood Fundraiser

Santa on the Bayou

December 12th, 2026

Recent News


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3 Must-See Spots in Gran Canaria

April 15th, 2026

Gran Canaria offers a mix of natural beauty and cultural charm, with destinations that showcase the island’s unique landscape. Roque Nublo stands out as one of its most iconic landmarks, offering sweeping views from the heart of the island.

The Maspalomas Dunes provide a striking contrast, with rolling sands that feel almost desert-like along the southern coast. For a glimpse into local history and tradition, the town of Teror offers colorful streets, historic architecture, and a strong sense of Canarian heritage.

Together, these three spots capture the essence of what makes Gran Canaria so special.


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St. Bernard Bird Festival Returns to Los Isleños Center

April 8, 2026

The Isleños Bird Festival is returning to St. Bernard Parish, taking place at the Isleños Center and bringing together nature lovers, families, and birding enthusiasts for a weekend celebrating the region’s rich wildlife and coastal beauty.

The festival will feature guided birdwatching, educational exhibits, and opportunities to explore the unique ecosystems that make this area a haven for migratory birds. It’s a great way to experience local culture while connecting with the natural environment.

For more information, visit the official site here: Saint Bernard Bird Festival


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Feliz Pascua from the Isleños

April 5, 2026

Wishing everyone a joyful and meaningful Easter filled with love, family, and tradition. Today, we celebrate not only the resurrection but also the heritage that keeps our community strong.

From cascarones and crawfish boils to prayers in the morning and laughter in the afternoon, Easter in the bayou is something special. The Isleños spirit shines brightest when we come together, honoring the past and embracing the present.

May your day be full of peace, warmth, and everything that makes our culture so unique.

Feliz Pascua, y que Dios los bendiga.


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A Brief History of the Isleños

The Journey

Between 1778 and 1783, about 2,000 Canary Islanders arrived in Louisiana and were settled in four locations strategically placed to protect the city of New Orleans. The settlements were known as Galveztown, Valenzuela, Barataria, and San Bernardo. Those at San Bernardo lived on land grants along Bayou Terre-aux-Boeufs.

Feeding a city

In San Bernardo, the Isleños quickly established their significance in the New World through their produce and poultry which dominated the markets of New Orleans. Ranchers from as far as Texas came to have their cattle trained by skilled Isleños. Later, many Isleños began to hunt, trap, and fish in the Louisiana wetlands.

Today

Only in St. Bernard Parish has the language and culture of those original Canary Islanders survived, in a significant measure, into the 21st century. Perhaps several hundred thousand people are descendants today. The Isleño community represents the last living vestige of Spanish Colonial Louisiana and the extent of the Canarian identity.

Website Dedication

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Frank Fernández, Jr. (1918 – 2001) remained unsurpassed as a benevolent family patriarch, educator, public servant, and community leader. His unfailing courage in confronting life’s battles was an inspiration to all who knew him. Frank Fernández founded the movement to preserve the heritage and cultural identity of the Isleños as well as establish Los Isleños Museum and Historic Village and Los Isleños Heritage and Cultural Society of St. Bernard.


Adele (Molero) Fernández (1926 – 2016) was the ever-faithful wife and companion of Frank Fernández. She was proud of her heritage and consistently displayed the courage and “resilience” to successfully contend with hurricanes, floods, and rebuilding her home. She was a loyal and resourceful friend who cared for her family. Mrs. Fernández was an excellent cook, gracious hostess, and keen observer of humanity.