CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF BEING A LOCAL HISTORIC DISTRICT

So What’s The Big Deal?  Faubourg Marigny, and for that matter New Orleans as we know today, with its architectural beauty, walkability and charm, is a direct result of our Local Historic District that was created 50 years ago.  What most don’t know is that the Marigny before this was a rundown, blighted and decaying neighborhood that was slated to be torn down.  It took a group of concerned citizens to lead the charge to save this legacy for future generations and help make it what it is today.  While the Faubourg Marigny Improvement Association (FMIA) was founded in 1972, it wasn't until two years later in 1974 that we were recognized as a Local Historic District.

Our Local Historic District led to the creation of a whole new department, the Historic District Landmarks Commission (HDLC).  The HDLC is the City's regulatory agency for local Historic District Landmarks Commissions outside of the Vieux Carré (French Quarter).  Established in 1976, this agency provides the staff and office space for the two Commissions, the New Orleans Historic District Landmarks Commission and the Central Business District Historic District Landmarks Commission.

The two Commissions safeguard the heritage of the City by preserving and regulating historic landmarks and historic districts which reflect elements of its cultural, social, economic, political, and architectural history.  They preserve and enhance the quality of neighborhoods, strengthening the City's economic base, stimulating the tourist industry improving property values, fostering economic development, and encouraging growth.

The HDLC was charged with overseeing the development of the Faubourg Marigny Local Historic District and ensuring the integrity of the architectural fabric.  Our district was such a success that other neighborhoods followed suit.  Today there are 18 Local Historic Districts in New Orleans outside of the original Vieux Carré.

Also celebrating their 50th anniversary alongside the Faubourg Marigny Local Historic District, it was in 1974 that the Preservation Resource Center of New Orleans (PRC) was founded.  The PRC preserves New Orleans’ historic architecture, neighborhoods, and cultural identity through collaboration, empowerment, and service to our community.  The nonprofit organization has grown into a national leader in historic preservation as an advocate for one of the nation’s most cherished and culturally significant cities -- our beloved New Orleans.