Add this Historical Burial Ground to Your List of Things to Do over Thanksgiving in New Orleans
Cemeteries are places typically more associated with the dark winds of October and the allure of trick-or-treating than cooked turkeys. The wholesomeness of Thanksgiving, a holiday centered on close friends and family, does not tend to conjure up images of St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, no matter how renowned it may be.
However, visiting the resting places of generations of New Orleans families might just be the je ne sais quoi your Thanksgiving activity needs this year. Here’s 4 facts that will make a visit to St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 during the Thanksgiving season seem appropriate and surprisingly poignant for you and your loved ones.
Inter-Generational Above-Ground Family Tombs
As the oldest existing cemetery in New Orleans, St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 reflects the complex history of New Orleans’ response to a variety of environmental, social, and cultural factors over the decades. In fact, the layout of this National Register of Historic Places landmark was significantly influenced by the presence of densely packed family tombs.
Built above ground partially as a result of New Orleans’ high water table, family plots typically consisted of a single structure made from brick and plaster. Whitewashed and sometimes adorned with decorative elements, the tombs often implemented a stacking system that allowed for the consistent movement of older remains to the back to make room for new interments. Reflecting different architectural styles as a result of New Orleans’ rich multicultural heritage, the mausoleums house generations of the same families.
The Italian Mutual Benevolent Society’s Accomplishments
The tallest and one of the most prominent structures in St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 is the Italian Mutual Benevolent Society tomb. Constructed in 1857, this marble construction was designed by architect Pietro Gualdi with the express purpose of being used as a burial site for members of the society, who were typically Italian immigrants.
With a capacity for over a thousand remains, the society tomb showcases the power of pooling together community resources to make proper burials more accessible for individuals with limited means. Through a system of dues, members would help sustain the burial society and enable hundreds of families to provide a dignified resting place for their loved ones. The tomb itself features Baroque architecture with a figure of Charity at its pinnacle.
Marie Laveau’s Life-Long Commitment to Charitable Works
One of St. Louis Cemetery No. 1’s most famous occupants is Marie Laveau, otherwise known as the “Voodoo Queen” of New Orleans. Contrary to popular stereotypes, though, Laveau was a highly respected philanthropist who actively contributed to her community through various charitable efforts. When deadly yellow fever epidemics swept through New Orleans in the 19th century, Laveau provided continuous care and support to impacted families.
When children lost their parents, Laveau provided food, housing, and educational opportunities while even opening her own home to young people in need. Laveau posted bonds for free women of color facing legal troubles, visited condemned prisoners on death row, and organized spiritual and activist gatherings. In many aspects, Laveau’s life was a prime example of an individual living under the spirit of generosity and charity.
Bernard de Marigny’s Establishment of the Faubourg Marigny Neighborhood
When it comes to New Orleans history, Bernard de Marigny is a bit of an outsized character known for gambling, womanizing, and inheriting a plethora of money from his aristocratic family. However, Marigny did what few wealthy scions of his class never would by donating much of his estate lands for the establishment of the Faubourg Marigny Neighborhood.
Transforming his ancestral plantation into subdivisions available for individual purchasers created housing access for New Orleans residents who otherwise could never have afforded it. As a result, refugees from Haiti and other French-speaking Catholic families established their own family legacies in a community that was incredibly inclusive for the standards of its age.
You and Yours This Thanksgiving Season
In many ways, St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 embodies the essence of the Thanksgiving season. From strengthening family ties to doing good in the community, St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 is a surprising and fulfilling place to connect with loved ones, learn some local history, and tap into the centuries of New Orleans residents who, once upon a time, did the very same things as us. Book your guided tour of St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 today and enjoy a Thanksgiving experience to remember!
