OPELOUSAS, La. (KLFY) — Rod Sias with the Zydeco Historical and Preservation Society says the group was previously awarded funding from the state which they dedicated to preserving the historic Slims Y-Ki-Ki and getting its national recognition for the role it played in zydeco culture.

“Sims Y-Ki-Ki is one of the last remaining zydeco dance halls. Clifton Chenier played here, it is an integral part of zydeco music in creole culture and history. And so, we’re looking to preserve that,” said Sias.

Now, new steps have been taken as the department of culture, recreation and tourism, along with the national center for preservation and technology visited the legendary dance hall.

Rod Sias says, “And they came out and they basically digitally mapped and documented the building in the site, did some interviews with the owner,” Sias said. “What that tells us is that Sims Y-Ki-Ki is on the state’s radar and they are starting to see the importance of Sims Y-Ki-Ki and its contribution to zydeco music and creole culture.”

With these efforts going into Slim’s preservation, along with fundraising efforts for the Clifton Chenier Centennial Celebration, Sias says the preservation society is well on their way to immortalizing the zydeco capital’s history.

Sias tells News 10, “We’re well on our way, and like I said, we were working with Sims Y-Ki-Ki and the Clifton Chenier Centennial, which is going to kick off on June 25,” he said. “It takes time. It takes focus and dedication, but we think that Slim’s Y-Ki-Ki is worth it, it’s going to be a significant contribution to the cultural economy in Opelousas and St. Landry parish. It’s going to be a great thing.”

Sias says the preservation society is working on a new proposal for the state to approve the national historic recognition which is due May 17.

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