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.

February 9, 2021
By Melissa Carrier, Eli A. Haddow, and Keely Merritt

COVID-19 may have canceled parades for 2021, but it couldn't erase Mardi Gras entirely. Creativity flourished around the Crescent City in the form of a new tradition: house floats.




February 2, 2021
By Eli A. Haddow, marketing associate

Using archival sources, the creators of Monumental were able to tell the forgotten story of a Black politician in a new way.




January 31, 2021
By THNOC's Visitor Services Department

The food of south Louisiana has as many stories as it has flavors. We look into the backstories of some famous dishes, some of which may be surprising.




January 20, 2021
By Libby Neidenbach, visitor services trainer

Local circumstances—and tragedies—shaped Black New Orleanians’ successful struggle for the vote, but their fight had far-reaching consequences.




January 19, 2021
By Eli A. Haddow, marketing associate

After the Union liberated New Orleans, Black activists fought for civil liberties and basic human rights.




January 18, 2021
By Nick Weldon, associate editor

150 years before Kamala Harris was inaugurated as the nation's first Black vice president, newspapers speculated that Louisianan Oscar J. Dunn could be up for the job.




December 22, 2020
By Teresa Devlin, marketing manager

On November 14, 1960, four six-year-old girls in New Orleans became pioneers in the national civil rights movement. While they were confronted by mobs of protestors in their own neighborhoods, well-wishers from across the country sent cards of encouragement.




December 16, 2020
By Xiomara Blanco, Cecilia Hock, and Kurt Owens

In this video, Interpretation Assistant Kurt Owens discusses some of Kemper and Leila Williams's holiday traditions as well as their joy in the season.




December 11, 2020
Visitor Services Department

What does it mean to be Cajun? We explore the roots of this complicated identity through 12 individual stories.




December 11, 2020
By Dave Walker, communication specialist

We spoke with Lance Nichols, whose role in The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, launched his acting career in major Hollywood films.






 

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