New Orleans African American Museum: Preserving the Legacy of Tremé
Located in the heart of the Tremé neighborhood—the oldest surviving Black community in the United States—the New Orleans African American Museum (NOAAM) serves as a vital center for education and preservation. The museum is dedicated to interpreting the profound contributions made by people of African descent to the development of Louisiana's unique culture. Its scope spans the entirety of the African American experience in the region, from the era of slavery and free people of color through emancipation, Reconstruction, and into contemporary times.
By blending art, culture, and history, NOAAM provides a window into the resilience and creativity of a community that has shaped the identity of New Orleans.
Key Facts
- Location: Tremé neighborhood, New Orleans, Louisiana.
- Core Mission: To preserve and promote the contributions of people of African descent to Louisiana culture.
- Architectural Highlight: The Meilleur-Goldthwaite House, a premier example of a Creole maison de maître (master's house).
- Major Collection: The "Louisiana-Congo: the Bertrand Donation," featuring 70 pieces of original African artwork.
- Heritage Status: A featured site on the Louisiana African American Heritage Trail.
The Historic Campus and Architecture
The NOAAM property is situated on the site of a former plantation and encompasses seven historical structures. The centerpiece of the campus is the Meilleur-Goldthwaite House, constructed between 1828 and 1829. This brick building is recognized as the finest remaining Creole maison de maître in the city, characterized by its raised center-hall cottage design and large dormer windows.
The site has preserved not only the main house but also its original interior, outbuildings, and a significant portion of the original lot. In September 1991, the City of New Orleans purchased the Villa Meilleur. The landmark was subsequently restored through a collaborative effort involving Mayor Marc H. Morial, the Mayor's Division of Housing & Neighborhood Development, New Orleans Affordable Home Ownership, and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.
Resilience and Expansion
The museum has served as a cornerstone for redevelopment within Tremé, though it has faced significant challenges. Following substantial roof and water damage caused by Hurricane Katrina in 2005, the museum underwent restoration and reopened in February 2008. Under the leadership of former Executive Director Jonn Hankins, further improvements were made to the remaining structures.
In January 2011, the museum received a $3 million Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) to renovate the Villa Meilleur, the 1843 Passebon Cottage, and the Passebon servant quarters. Additionally, the museum expanded its campus by acquiring 1417-1419 Governor Nicholls Street to house administration and community events, fostering deeper collaborations with universities in fields such as archiving, museum studies, and the creative arts.
Collections and Artistic Exhibits
NOAAM balances permanent historical preservation with dynamic contemporary art. One of its most significant permanent displays is the "Louisiana-Congo: the Bertrand Donation." This 70-piece collection from the Democratic Republic of Congo includes masks, textiles, musical instruments, costumes, and beadwork, illustrating the cultural parallels between the Congo and Louisiana folk culture.
The museum also hosts rotating exhibits that bridge traditional African art with modern Black influences in New Orleans. Notable events include:
- Prospect New Orleans (2008): The museum participated in this massive international contemporary art biennial, featuring works by Rico Gatson, William Kentridge, and the duo McCallum + Tarry.
- Katrina Documentation: In August 2008, the museum exhibited Hurricane Katrina-related photography by New York City photographer John Rosenthal.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Primary Structure | Meilleur-Goldthwaite House (built 1828–1829) |
| Key Collection | Louisiana-Congo: the Bertrand Donation (70 pieces) |
| Neighborhood | Tremé (Oldest surviving Black community in the US) |
| Recent Funding | $3 million CDBG grant (2011) for renovation and expansion |
| Affiliations | Louisiana African American Heritage Trail |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the New Orleans African American Museum located?
The museum is located in the Tremé neighborhood of New Orleans, Louisiana, which is the oldest surviving Black community in the United States.
What is the significance of the Meilleur-Goldthwaite House?
Built in 1828–1829, it is considered the finest remaining example of a Creole "maison de maître" (master's house) in New Orleans, featuring a raised center-hall cottage design.
What is the "Louisiana-Congo: the Bertrand Donation"?
It is a centerpiece collection of 70 original African artworks—including masks, textiles, and musical instruments—from the Democratic Republic of Congo that highlight parallels with Louisiana folk culture.
How did Hurricane Katrina affect the museum?
The museum suffered substantial water and roof damage during the 2005 storm, leading to a restoration process that allowed it to reopen in February 2008.
Is the museum part of any larger heritage projects?
Yes, the New Orleans African American Museum is featured as a site on the Louisiana African American Heritage Trail.