(from left) Allan Millett, Jerry Strahan, Michael Edwards and Brad Burke with the new Higgins historical marker on St. Charles Ave.
The City of New Orleans dedicated a historical marker honoring the contributions of Andrew Jackson Higgins and the workers of Higgins Industries during World War II. The marker is located on the neutral ground across from Houston's restaurant at 1755 St. Charles Avenue. The Higgins marker is a collaborative project between the University of New Orleans' Eisenhower Center and the UNO Department of History.
Brad Burke, a graduate history student at UNO and owner Brad J. Burke Insurance Agency, gave the marker as a gift to the city in the name of the Eisenhower Center. Jerry Strahan, the author of Andrew Jackson Higgins and the Boats That Won World War II composed the text for the marker. Councilmember-at-large Jackie Clarkson represented the City of New Orleans at the unveiling ceremony, held on Friday, February 10.
Andrew J. Higgins revolutionized amphibious warfare during World War II through his special assault boats. The workers of Higgins Industries built these boats in New Orleans. The Landing Craft, Vehicle or Personnel, better known as the “Higgins boat,” is the best known craft produced by Higgins.
The Eisenhower Center for American Studies, under the direction of Allan R. Millett, Ambrose professor of history, is a component of the College of Liberal Arts at the University of New Orleans. The Eisenhower Center encourages study of the causes, conduct and consequences of American national security policy and the use of force as an instrument of policy in the 20th century.