The most popular and dominant mode of transportation in Southwest Louisiana and Southeast Texas during the 1800's was sailing area bayous, rivers and lakes. Schooners were the most numerous boats plying the waters as they brought supplies to the early settlers. They exported vast amounts of lumber and cotton. There were hundreds of schooners operating at one time, and they remained the life artery for communities until the coming of the railroads. ''Schooner Trade'' depicts one of the many schooners weighing anchor where a red flag was flying as the signal for the boat to stop.

Suzy Lee Trahan, is renowned for her art in both Louisiana and Maine(her home state). She enjoys painting the uniqueness of both places and capturing contrasts of the seasons and wildlife. She has done extensive works in watercolors, oils and acrylics.