Realizing all of the family members related to the extensive Darby line might not be available to attend the full upcoming weekend for the 300th year family reunion, Carrie Darby Dore contacted event organizers to suggest an alternative to the all encompassing weekend registration fee.

“I said, let’s make a deal. They can come to the picnic on Saturday for a $20 per family registration plus pay $7.50 for lunch, or bring their own,” Dore said. “That works for people who don’t want to do all of the events. They also need to bring their own chairs.”

She has been busy tracking down a lot of cousins. Just from her father’s line, St. Marc Darby, there were 13 children, 56 first cousins.

The family home no longer exists on Darby Lane, but, architect Perry Segura used much of the design to build his house on the former homeplace. He has agreed to allow family members to come out between 9 a.m. and noon Saturday, June 22, to have their pictures taken in front of the house. The picnic arranged by Dore will then follow at noon in New Iberia City Park. Attendees will need to register each family for a total fee of $20 plus $7.50 per plate, or they can opt to bring their own picnic. Chairs and drinks also are the responsibility of the attendees.

Dore’s aunt, Helen Darby Courrege, 98, will be the guest of honor at the locally sponsored picnic. She is the oldest known Darby descendant to attend. Her brother, Dore’s father, died six years ago at the age of 100. Call Dore at 364-8615 or 380-1027 for details.