Are there any archived photos of the Opera House fire in 1898 (before or after the fire)? My great-grandfather’s newspaper was part of the structure where he lost everything without insurance. He was J. B. Lawton, the editor/publisher of the Iberia Enterprise from 1885-1902.

He had worked from age of 19 in the newspaper business with the Le Cotton-Boll. Then later with the Sugar-Bowl prior to starting the Enterprise. He lived at 160 Main Street prior to 1900. I don’t think there was an east or west at the time.

Any information you could provide would be very welcomed. Anyone you can point me to in New Iberia would also be helpful. Thank you for taking the time to read this.

Ces Lawton

Hendersonville, NC