New Orleans National Register of Historic Places

New Orleans is a city where history is etched into every facade and cobblestone. From the ornate balconies of the French Quarter to the sprawling estates of the Garden District, the city's architectural landscape serves as a living museum. Many of these sites are officially recognized on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP), the official list of the United States' districts, sites, buildings, structures, and objects deemed worthy of preservation for their historical significance.

The diversity of these listings reflects the complex cultural tapestry of New Orleans, encompassing Spanish and French colonial influences, Antebellum grandeur, and the vital contributions of the city's African American communities.

Key Facts

• Broad Scope: Listings range from individual residential homes and commercial buildings to entire historic districts.
• Diverse Eras: The register includes sites from the colonial period through the mid-20th century.
• Cultural Landmarks: Includes significant sites like Congo Square and the Dew Drop Inn.
• Architectural Variety: Features everything from the iconic St. Charles Streetcar Line to the Louisiana Superdome.

Historic Districts and Urban Areas

Rather than focusing on single buildings, New Orleans has several designated historic districts. These areas are preserved as cohesive units to maintain the atmospheric integrity of the neighborhood.

The Vieux Carre Historic District, commonly known as the French Quarter, is perhaps the most famous, characterized by its dense urban layout and colonial architecture.

: Vieux Carre Historic District

Other significant districts include the Garden District and the Lower Garden District, known for their opulent 19th-century mansions and lush greenery.

: Garden District

The city also preserves areas of immense social and cultural importance, such as the Central City Historic District and the Bywater Historic District, which showcase the evolution of residential life in the city.

: Bywater Historic District

Notable Individual Landmarks

Beyond the districts, hundreds of individual structures are listed for their specific historical or architectural merit. These include government buildings, religious institutions, and private residences.

Civic and Government Buildings

The city's administrative history is preserved in structures like Gallier Hall and the U.S. Customhouse, which represent the legal and economic foundations of the region.

: Gallier Hall

Cultural and Religious Sites

Faith and community are central to New Orleans. The register includes the St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, famous for its above-ground tombs, and the Agudath Achim Anshe Sfard Synagogue.

: St. Louis Cemetery No. 1

Residential Architecture

Private homes often tell the story of the city's elite and working classes. Examples include the Hermann-Grima House and the Lafcadio Hearn House.

: Hermann-Grima House

Summary of Selected NRHP Listings

Site Name	Category	Date Listed
The Cabildo	Civic/Government	October 15, 1966
Congo Square	Cultural Site	August 20, 1998
St. Charles Streetcar Line	Transportation	June 11, 1975
Louisiana Superdome	Modern Landmark	January 12, 1984
Dew Drop Inn	Cultural/Social	October 10, 2023

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the National Register of Historic Places?

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of districts, sites, buildings, structures, and objects in the United States deemed worthy of preservation for their historical significance to American history, architecture, archaeology, engineering, and culture.

Which is the most famous historic district in New Orleans?

The Vieux Carre Historic District, better known as the French Quarter, is the most famous due to its unique colonial architecture and cultural prominence.

Are cemeteries included in the historic register?

Yes, several cemeteries are listed, including St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 and No. 2, as well as Metairie Cemetery, due to their unique funerary architecture and historical importance.

Does the register include modern buildings?

Yes, the register includes significant 20th-century structures, such as the Louisiana Superdome, provided they meet the criteria for historical or architectural significance.

How are these sites identified?

Sites are identified by their name on the register, their physical address or coordinates, and a specific reference number assigned by the NRHP.