The Jesuit & Sacred Heart Descendants Association (JSHDA) of Louisiana, rooted in the historic community of Grand Coteau, Louisiana, is dedicated to honoring, preserving, and advancing the legacy of the enslaved men, women, and children whose lives and labor were tied to the Jesuit Order (Society of Jesus) and the Society of the Sacred Heart.

Our mission all  includes documenting and preserving the histories of families affected by the 1838 Jesuit slave sale, commonly known as the GU272 sale, in which 272 enslaved individuals from Jesuit plantations in Maryland were sold and transported to Louisiana. Many of these individuals and their descendants became part of Catholic communities connected to Jesuit missions and the Society of the Sacred Heart in Grand Coteau, La and other sites . 

Through genealogical research, historical documentation, education, and cultural preservation, JSHDA works to reconnect descendant families, safeguard ancestral records, and promote historical truth. We seek to honor the resilience and contributions of our ancestors while advocating for recognition, reconciliation, and restorative justice.

The Association is committed to ensuring that the stories, faith, labor, and legacy of these communities are preserved and carried forward for future generations. 

-Lanny P. Anderson , Founder-President (Descendant of Kitty Blacklock-Eaglin & Nelly Winderry GU272 & Society of the Sacred Heart , Henry Eaglin- Society of the Sacred Heart )