Fascinating Facts About New Orleans

The "fleur de lis," this motif historically is associated with New Orleans and its heritage.

1682-"Robert Cavelier de la Salle planted the cross on Louisiana soil and erected a plaque with the french fleur-de-lis. He claimed the lower Mississippi valley in the name of God, the French, and the King."
Citation: http://archdiocese-no.org/history/french.htm

"The fleur de lis meaning is a symbolic drawing of a lily or an iris. You will see it all over in European coats of arms and is really representative of the French. You will often find the fleur de lis symbol in areas that were settled by the French. Those areas were Quebec, St. Louis, Louisville, and Louisiana. The symbol is thought to mean ideals of purity, light, and is floral in its depiction."
Citation: www.digitalnewsreport.com/2010/02/08-mardi_gras_new_orleans_history_of_the_celebrations/3084n.

2005-The fleur-de-lis becomes a unifying symbol throughout the gulf region. This symbolic piece of history unites New Orleans as survivors of the storm
come together to reclaim their lives post Hurricane Katrina.

An Institution of Revelry

There is a tradition unique to New Orleans called the Second Line. Its roots run rich and it is a custom steeped in history. I believe you will find the history of this practice undeniably gripping. As a native New Orleanian, I am excited to share the distinct background of this institution of revelry. It is a festive ritual in which the majority of New Orleanians have participated in at some time in their life.

Since I am a sixth generation New Orleans native, it never occurred to me that the rest of the world did not participate in this practice. Upon moving to Texas, I found myself a non-traditional student enrolled in college for the first time. In Speech class as I gave my presentation, I thought it would be fun, as well as entertaining to have a few class members Second Line in to the class. My classmates were appalled when I shared with them what I wanted them to do. I was equally dumbfounded, since everyone in New Orleans Second Lines at the drop of a hat. It was one of many culture shocks I would have as a result of leaving the Big Easy.

As I continue to post to my blog concerning the New Orleans Second Line, I hope you will enjoy it, and glean from it. Additionally, I hope you will be compelled to visit New Orleans where you may have the opportunity to experience a Second Line. If you do, you will have availed yourself of the opportunity to participate in a practice dating far back in the annals of America's heritage. As we say in New Orleans " Laissez les bon temps rouler" - that's Cajun French for "Let the Good Times Roll!"