History is an evolving story. Here at The Historic New Orleans Collection, we gather, research, and share artifacts from New Orleans’ many stories, weaving together the people, places, and events that connect us to the city. First Draft gives readers inside access to our vast institutional holdings and staff expertise in a fresh and dynamic way. Read the latest stories below, or scroll down to browse by theme.

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December 27, 2024
By Jessica Dorman, director of publications

Nine Louisiana poets visited the landmark exhibition on the history of incarceration and created original work based on their experiences.




December 11, 2024

The Historic New Orleans Collection is your destination for all things Carnival in 2023!




November 21, 2024
By John Corley, associate editor of the ‘Angolite’

John Corley, associate editor at Louisiana State Penitentiary, discusses the history and operations of the award-winning periodical.




November 15, 2024
By Evelyn Strope, 2024 DAGS intern

The clever construction of a 19th-century maternity dress




October 24, 2024
By Craig Fuchs, interpreter

The Swedish singer was one of the first music icons of the early global age, causing frenzy on every stop of her world tour.




October 10, 2024
By Craig Fuchs, interpreter

How Louisiana Creoles used fashion to declare and express their identity.




September 25, 2024
By Kerry Woodard, summer 2024 Archives and Special Collections Practicum intern

HNOC's diverse archive shows how restaurants preserve history and heritage through their menus.




September 13, 2024
By Lydia Blackmore, decorative arts curator

A census of portraits tells us who is—and isn't—represented in HNOC's holdings.




August 10, 2024
Cederick Ellis, summer 2024 archives and special collections practicum intern

The Ursuline sisters’ prayer books were an integral part of their daily lives—and of their performance of femininity.




July 18, 2024
Nick Weldon, Editor

A new exhibition explores the historical links between the institutions of slavery and mass incarceration in Louisiana.




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