William Grout, who grew up around Walker, Louisiana, worked in many professions from rodeo cowboy to schoolteacher. However, from his days in the Army Air Corps during World War II, he was an avid photographer. Although he has done commercial work in portraiture and weddings, this collection reflects his interest in scenic photography. Most of the images, which were taken mainly between 1974 and 1978, are of Louisiana, especially the Florida parishes. They also indicate Mr. Grout's interest in motorcycling.

This collection is arranged by subject as assigned by Mr. Grout. He donated the collection to the University of Southwestern Louisiana (now the University of Louisiana at Lafayette) in 1978.