| Historic Victorian mansions, eloquent wrought-iron | | | | including fusions of Greek Revival, Italianate, Spanish, |
| fences and centuries of American history (both real | | | | French and English. The earliest mansion of |
| and fictional) characterize the Garden District of New | | | | importance is the Toby-Westfeldt House built in 1838 |
| Orleans. | | | | and which still stands on Prytania Street. |
| Although the official settlement date of the area is | | | | Inside one of these esteemed mansions, you'll find |
| questionable, it is highly accepted that development | | | | high ceilings, detailed plaster and wood work, elegant |
| of the district began in the early 1830's with a wave | | | | antiques and luscious fabrics. Not to keep display of |
| of growth spurred by successful entrepreneurs, | | | | their material wealth regulated to the inside of the |
| known as the "nouveau riche," in the 1840's. The area | | | | home, original owners made sure the ornate details |
| was annexed to New Orleans in 1852. | | | | and intricate workings adorned the exterior as well. |
| The first settlers to the area wanted large lots to | | | | Many of the homes host 20 to 30 rooms and some |
| accommodate their tastes for grandeur and to show | | | | are still in the possession of descendants of the |
| off their riches. The spacious yards encouraged | | | | original owners. |
| gardening thereby giving the district its name. | | | | With its beautiful display of both architecture and |
| However, the houses are set rather close together | | | | landscaping, it is no wonder why the Garden District |
| which makes the district unique. | | | | is a favorite among New Orleans tours, both walking |
| The district is bounded by St. Charles Avenue to the | | | | and streetcar. The district also received a boost from |
| north, 1st Street to the east, Magazine Street to the | | | | famous author Anne Rice who resided in the area for |
| south and Toledano Street to the west. Although | | | | years. Fans love seeing the former residences of the |
| initial homes were built along the picturesque river, | | | | writer as well as picking out the homes featured in |
| the established railway down St. Charles encouraged | | | | her vampire and Mayfair Witches series which add to |
| development along the transportation line. | | | | the ambiance and imagination of the ghost tours of |
| Though the district is known for its Victorian | | | | the district as well. |
| mansions, numerous styles grace the streets, | | | | |