Kemper and Leila Williams Prize in Louisiana History

Awarded annually by HNOC and the Louisiana Historical Association, the Kemper and Leila Williams Prize in Louisiana History highlights excellence in research and writing on Louisiana history.

About

Administration and funding for the Kemper and Leila Williams Prize is provided by the Historic New Orleans Collection. The prize jury is appointed by the Louisiana Historical Association with a chairperson from the Historic New Orleans Collection. The prize includes a cash award of $1,500 and a plaque, presented each March.

2025 Nominations

The Williams Prize Committee invites nominations of eligible works published between January 1 and December 31, 2025. Works about all aspects of Louisiana history and culture are eligible, as are works placing Louisiana subjects in regional, national, or international context. The submission deadline is Friday, January 9, 2026.

Please submit the online form below ONCE and mail FIVE (5) copies of the nominated work by January 9, 2026, to:

Chair, Williams Prize Committee
The Historic New Orleans Collection
410 Chartres Street, New Orleans, Louisiana 70130-2179

 If using a fulfillment service, please be cognizant of shipment timing. Submissions received past the deadline may not be included for consideration.