This program will examine John James Audubon’s brief but impactful sojourn at Oakley Plantation. Using the museum, Oakley House, and nature trails, we will briefly trace Audubon’s trajectory from his birth on a Caribbean sugar plantation to his arrival in America and, eventually, West Feliciana. Though Audubon’s time at Oakley was brief, it was significant, for upon leaving Oakley, Audubon would exchange his identity as a failed businessman for that of one of early America’s most luminous artists and celebrities. Audubon’s story tells us much about social and economic fluidity in Republic-era America, as well as the elasticity of personal identity during this period. We will incorporate readings from his journal where appropriate. Time and place: 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., 11788 Highway 965, St. Francisville. For more information, call Audubon State Historic Site at 225-635-3739.