New Orleans, Louisiana, is a city known for its rich cultural history and unique blend of traditions. One aspect of this cultural tapestry is the exploration of witches in New Orleans. **Witchcraft, superstition, and magical beliefs have long been present in the city and continue to be a source of fascination for visitors and residents alike**. The history of witches in New Orleans can be traced back to the early days of the city's colonization by the French. **The influence of African, Caribbean, and Native American cultures brought with them a belief in the spiritual world and the practice of various forms of magic**. The blending of these diverse beliefs gave rise to a distinct brand of witchcraft that can be seen in the city today.
1140 Royal Street as it looks today. Image via Wikipedia.
The LaLaurie family lived a dual life, walking among socialites, where they managed to maintain a central position, and committing atrocities upon their slaves-human beings-behind the closed doors of their own home. Whether you are interested in Voodoo, Alexandrian Witchcraft, modern Pagan practices, or Western Ceremonial Magick, you can find a coven and resources in the City.
The blending of these diverse beliefs gave rise to a distinct brand of witchcraft that can be seen in the city today. One prominent figure in the exploration of witches in New Orleans is Marie Laveau. **Marie Laveau was a renowned Voodoo priestess who lived in the 19th century and is often referred to as the "Voodoo Queen of New Orleans"**.
New Orleans’ House of Murder and Witch Covens
Kids are crazy fun, aren’t they? They’ve kept me a little busy lately. Actually held this post hostage a day. Can you believe that? Anywho…a new television show has had me thinking about Louisiana and witches, lately. It reminds me of some research I did a while back.
On December 5 th of 2011, on an early Immortal Monday post, we explored New Orleans . Briefly mentioned at the time was Madame LaLaurie. I choose to avoid bringing her ugly history to the blog during the cheery Holiday Season. Well, it’s this interesting lady that has recently found a new platform in television and I thought it would be fun to share a little more about her. It’s so terribly fitting in the spirit of Halloween . Mwuahhahhahhahh.
Marie Delphine LaLaurie, often referred to as Madame LaLaurie, was twice widowed and a mother to five. It was during her third marriage, to the physician Leonard Louis Nicolas LaLaurie, that the frightening history was made. Madame LaLaurie, herself, bought the property at 1140 Royal Street i n New Orleans and built a three-story mansion there. Upon its completion it was described as “the highest building for squares around.”
1140 Royal Street as it looks today. Image via Wikipedia.
The land was purchased in 1831, the home completed in 1832, and in 1834 a fire broke out in the kitchen of the magnificent home. When the fire marshals and police arrived they were shocked to find the cook, a seventy-year-old woman, chained to the stove by her ankle. She later told the officials she started the fire in an admitted suicide, fearful of being taken to the upper room. No one ever returned from that room. Officials would have to break down the door to gain access to the room-against the LaLaurie family’s wishes. Horrors of tortured slaves would be found. Remains where later found buried on or in the premises.
I’ve been lucky enough to visit the haunted city on two separate occasions. Ghosts of the past can be found everywhere you turn in New Orleans. Few places have more of them than the LaLaurie home. It’s one of the many stops along the haunted history tour I took both times.
The LaLaurie family lived a dual life, walking among socialites, where they managed to maintain a central position, and committing atrocities upon their slaves-human beings-behind the closed doors of their own home.
It’s very possible that Leonard LaLaurie was experimenting within his profession. Maybe it was something more. This season American Horror Story brings Madame LaLourie’s character to the small screen with their new storyline: Coven. If you’re familiar with the style of A.H.S. then you can look forward to something new this time around, a bit of camp mixed in with the dark . Mmm… delicious.
I realize that only one episode has aired so far, but squirming with excitement! Damn it was good! I thoroughly enjoy how they’re pulling together the rich backdrop and history of Louisiana and Mississippi and mixing it up with a devilish twist of folklore regarding Madame LaLaurie, while using a coven of young witches who don’t have a clue who they really are or what they’re capable of to tell the story. If you’re a supernatural/paranormal lover, then maybe you should be watching.
As for the LaLaurie home, tours inside the property (as seen in the first episode) were not possible either time I visited the city as it was a privately owned residence then. I can’t find anything that leads me to believe the status has changed. Nicolas Cage actually owned it from 2007 to 2009 when it was auctioned due to bank foreclosure. The property was valued at $3.5 million at the time, yet only sold for $2.3. Do you think all the ghosts brought the value down? Poor Nick had such a rough time.
I’m anxious to return to the area very soon as one of my current projects is set nearby. There’s nothing like a little visit for the sake of a project… immersing yourself in the research. It can only make the story all the better.
Do you think I should hunt down some ghosts while I’m in the area? Would you visit the dark streets of the French Quarter or the cemeteries at night?
Her magical abilities and spiritual practices made her a revered figure in the community, and her grave at St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 continues to be a popular pilgrimage site for those seeking her blessings or assistance. Another aspect of the exploration of witches in New Orleans is the famous annual event known as "Witch's Fest". **Held each October, Witch's Fest brings together practitioners of various magical traditions and provides a space for learning, sharing, and celebrating all things mystical**. This festival attracts not only locals but also visitors from around the world who have a keen interest in the supernatural and the occult. Moreover, the city is home to numerous shops, boutiques, and occult stores that cater to the magical community. **These establishments offer a wide range of products, from spell kits to tarot cards, and provide a space for individuals to seek guidance and explore their own magical potential**. The exploration of witches in New Orleans is not just limited to the realm of entertainment and tourism. **Many locals also actively practice witchcraft and embrace the spiritual traditions that have been passed down through generations**. These individuals may participate in rituals, spellcasting, and other mystical practices as a way to connect with their ancestors and the unseen forces that shape their lives. In conclusion, the exploration of witches in New Orleans is a fascinating aspect of the city's cultural landscape. **From historical figures like Marie Laveau to modern-day practitioners, the presence of witches and magical beliefs continues to captivate and inspire both locals and visitors**. Whether one is interested in the historical roots of witchcraft or wishes to engage in magical practices themselves, New Orleans offers a rich tapestry of traditions and experiences to explore..
Reviews for "Witchcraft and Ghosts: Supernatural Encounters in New Orleans"
1. John - 2/5 stars - I had really high hopes for "Exploration of witches in New Orleans" as I love stories about witches and this city has such a rich history. However, I was sorely disappointed. The storyline was sluggish and lacked depth, making it difficult for me to become invested in the characters. The pacing was off, with long periods of nothing happening followed by rushed and confusing action sequences. The dialogue felt forced and unnatural, making it hard to believe in the world that was being presented. Overall, I found "Exploration of witches in New Orleans" to be a missed opportunity and a lackluster addition to the genre.
2. Emily - 2/5 stars - As a fan of witch-themed novels, I was excited to dive into "Exploration of witches in New Orleans." Unfortunately, it fell short of my expectations. The characters were one-dimensional and lacked development, making it difficult to care about their fates. The setting of New Orleans was not effectively utilized, and instead of adding richness to the story, it felt like a mere backdrop. The writing style was uninspiring, lacking the atmospheric and captivating quality that I look for in this genre. I found myself struggling to stay engaged with the story and ultimately felt let down by "Exploration of witches in New Orleans."
3. Sarah - 3/5 stars - While "Exploration of witches in New Orleans" had an intriguing premise, it failed to fully deliver on its potential. The plot felt disjointed and scattered, with too many subplots that distracted from the main storyline. The pacing was uneven, with slow sections that lacked momentum, followed by rushed and chaotic events. Additionally, the character development left much to be desired. I couldn't connect with or understand the motivations of the protagonists, which made it difficult to fully invest in their journey. Overall, "Exploration of witches in New Orleans" had some interesting elements but ultimately fell short of being a truly captivating read.