The United States transported more than 400,000 Axis prisoners of war to America during World War II. Across Louisiana, five camps held thousands of Italian and German POWs, including members of the Afrika Korps captured in 1943 and crewmen from the German submarine U-505 captured in June 1944. Conditions varied for these captives as they lived out the war in unfamiliar surroundings. Join Museum Senior Curator and Director of Curatorial Services Kim Guise as she examines the daily lives of these men, the contributions they made to help alleviate the labor shortage on the Home Front, the opportunities they had to interact with the local populations, and the lasting impression their captivity in the United States made on them.

Dinner with a Curator is an evening of dinner and history hosted by The American Sector Restaurant & Bar culinary team and Museum professionals. Guests participate in discussion on a featured topic related to World War II, which is interpreted through the Museum's collection and a theme-inspired three-course dinner paired with beverage specials. Ticket sales end 48 hours prior to the start of the event.

Dinner with a Curator Menu

“Barbed Wire on the Bayou: Axis Prisoners of War in Louisiana”

November 18, 2025

First

Chicken and Sausage Gumbo

Louisiana Smoked Sausage, Boneless Chicken, Dark Roux, White Rice, Scallions

Pairing: Mirassou Pinot Noir, California

Second

Fresh Catch Amandine

Pan-Seared Gulf Fish, Toasted Almond Brown Butter, Whipped Potatoes, Haricots Verts

Pairing: Columbia Crest Chardonnay, Washington  

Third

Lemonade Cake

Lemon Mousseline, Meyer Lemon Curd, Whipped Cream, Candied Lemon

Pairing: Bees Knees Cocktail

Gin, Honey Simple Syrup, Fresh Lemon Juice