Gallier House, New Orleans

This mid-19th-century home, designed and owned by prominent New Orleans architect James Gallier Jr., is a fascinating glimpse into the past. Apparently, Gallier used it as an architectural testing ground for his innovative ideas before incorporating them into other people's homes. The house showcases various technological and architectural advancements for its time, offering insights into cutting-edge 19th-century design, including the luxury of indoor plumbing in a beautifully appointed bathroom. The presence of slave quarters and kitchens adds to the historical significance, but what steals the show is the master bedroom with its exquisite complete set of furniture, a rarity in today's homes (hardly anyone has ceilings that high!).

What adds depth to the tour is the insight into daily life during an era without electricity, central heating, or air-conditioning (they did somehow manage to provide a measure of airflow through the house during the hot summer months while also dealing with the stench from the street below, and the presence of insects). Visitors gain a realistic understanding of the challenges and hardships faced by both the homeowners and particularly their enslaved individuals.

Throughout the holiday season, the entire house is festively decorated for Christmas, and it also observes a distinctive tradition called "Summer Dress", wherein, in the summer months, furniture, rugs, and linens are either covered or substituted with lighter fabrics to maintain a cool and comfortable atmosphere.

Why You Should Visit:
A richly appointed house that feels very authentic: you can easily picture the family and slaves going about their daily routines. Guides are knowledgeable and keep visitors engaged with an inductive teaching approach, so you will learn a lot.

Tip:
Note that the Women's Exchange, which also manages the Hermann-Grima House, offers a discount when you visit both, so be sure to save your receipt, but remember that self-entry is not permitted, so check the tour schedules in advance.

Tour Times:
Wednesday through Monday: 10am, 11am, 1pm, 2pm, 3pm; reservations encouraged