Lafayette Square (New Orleans) facts for kids
Lafayette Square is a historic public park in New Orleans, Louisiana. It is the second-oldest park in the city, right after Jackson Square. You can find it in what is now the Central Business District. In the late 1700s, this area was a neighborhood called Faubourg Sainte Marie, which means St. Mary Suburb.
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History of Lafayette Square
How the Park Was Designed
The park was designed in 1788 by a man named Charles Laveau Trudeau. He was also known as Don Carlos Trudeau. He worked as the Surveyor General for Louisiana when it was under Spanish rule. Later, in 1812, he even served as the acting mayor of New Orleans.
Why the Park Has Its Name
Lafayette Square was named after Gilbert du Motier, Marquis de Lafayette. He was a French nobleman and a general. He bravely fought alongside the American forces during the American Revolutionary War. The park honors his important role in American history.
Important Statues and Buildings
Statues You Can See
In the very center of Lafayette Square, there is a large bronze statue of Henry Clay. He was a famous American statesman. You can also find statues of John McDonogh and Benjamin Franklin nearby. These statues are located on the corners of St. Charles Avenue and Camp Street.
Gallier Hall: A Historic Building
Right across from Lafayette Square, on St. Charles Avenue, stands Gallier Hall. This grand building used to be the City Hall of New Orleans. Even though the city government offices have moved to a different location, Gallier Hall and the square are still used for important events. These include official ceremonies and public gatherings.
What Happens at the Square Today
Lafayette Square is a lively place. It often hosts many different civic events. For example, new city leaders are sometimes sworn into office here. The park is also a popular spot for live music concerts. People come to enjoy performances in the open air.
The Park's Resilience After Hurricane Katrina
In 2005, Hurricane Katrina caused a lot of damage to New Orleans. The trees in Lafayette Square were severely harmed. Broken glass and debris from nearby buildings made the park unsafe for a while.
After the hurricane, a group of local residents and people who worked downtown decided to help. They formed a charity called the Lafayette Square Conservancy. Their goal was to restore the park. They worked hard to clean it up and make it a beautiful urban space once again.
Images for kids
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First Presbyterian Church of New Orleans 1854.jpg
First Presbyterian Church of New Orleans in 1854
