New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum facts for kids
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| Established | 1972 |
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| Location | 724 Dumaine St, New Orleans, Louisiana, US |
| Type | Religious museum, art museum, history museum |
The New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum is a special place in New Orleans, United States. It's a museum all about Louisiana Voodoo, a unique religion from the African diaspora. The museum shows off the mysteries, history, and stories of this fascinating culture.
You can find this small but mighty museum in the heart of the French Quarter. It sits right between the famous Bourbon and Royal Streets. Even though it only has two rooms, it's one of the few museums in the world focused entirely on Vodou art.
Contents
About the Museum
The New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum opened its doors in 1972. It quickly became a central spot for learning about Voodoo, folklore, and history in the French Quarter.
Who Started It?
The museum was created by a man named Charles Massicot Gandolfo. People often called him "Voodoo Charlie." He loved collecting all sorts of items related to Louisiana Voodoo. These items help tell the stories and history of this interesting religion.
What Makes It Special?
This museum is truly one of a kind. It's one of the only places in the world completely dedicated to Voodoo art, culture, and religion. It offers a deep dive into a topic you won't find in many other museums.
What You Can See
The museum is filled with many interesting things to explore. It features original artworks and important historical items.
Amazing Artworks
You can see original art by local artists like Herbert “Coon” Singleton. His works include special altars, wishing stumps, masks, and unique "killer sticks." The museum also displays paintings by Voodoo Charlie himself. These paintings show scenes of Voodoo rituals, priestesses, and old Louisiana stories.
Colorful Voodoo Flags
Don't miss the beautiful Voodoo flags or banners. These are made by a famous Haitian artist named Joseph Oldof Pierre. Voodoo flags are a spectacular form of Haitian art. They are traditionally made by Voodoo priests and their followers. These flags are often displayed in Voodoo temples and during ceremonies. Each flag is made from shiny silk fabrics. They are covered in a brilliant mosaic of sequins and beads. A single flag can have 18,000 to 20,000 sequins!
Special Exhibits
- The Main Altar: Visitors can leave offerings and prayers here. You can connect with deities or spirits that are important to you.
- Marie Laveau's Kneeling Board: Legend says this wooden board belonged to the famous Voodoo queen, Marie Laveau.
The Gris Gris Room
In the Gris Gris Room, you'll find some unique displays.
- Rougarou and Baron Samedi: You can see a recreation of the Rougarou. This is a legendary creature from Louisiana folklore. It stands next to Baron Samedi, an important figure in Louisiana Voodoo.
- Ceremonial Masks: The room also has ceremonial masks from Central America.
- Fertility Statues: Look for fertility statues from the Ashanti tribe.
- Passport Masks: There are also "Passport" masks. Tribes used these masks to travel between different regions.
Visiting the Museum
The New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum has been around for over 50 years. It continues to be an active center for Louisiana culture. Both tourists and local people enjoy visiting.
What Else Can You Do?
- Voodoo Priest Readings: There is often a Voodoo priest on site. They can give readings to visitors.
- Gift Shop: The museum has a gift shop. It's full of educational information, souvenirs, and interesting curiosities.
- Walking Tours: The museum also offers walking tours. These tours can take you to the tomb of Marie Laveau in the Saint Louis Cemetery. You can also visit Congo Square, a historic site.
The New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum is a great place to learn about a unique part of Louisiana's history and culture.
Images for kids
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The entrance to the New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum.
See also
In Spanish: Museo Histórico del Vudú de Nueva Orleans para niños
