Hermann-Grima House

What to know

The Hermann-Grima House is a meticulously restored 19th-century residence located at 820 Saint Louis Street. Built in 1831 by Samuel Hermann, a wealthy German-born cotton commodities broker, the home reflects the economic prosperity of New Orleans during its peak as a port city. The architecture blends Federal style with Creole sensibilities, creating a sophisticated urban dwelling that serves as a window into the city's social hierarchy. Beyond the main residence, the property includes an expansive courtyard and urban slave quarters, which are central to the Urban Enslavement Tour. This specialized tour interprets the experiences of those enslaved in an urban setting, contrasting their lives with those in rural environments and highlighting the contributions of people of African descent to the city's development. One of the most significant features of the site is its original operating open-hearth kitchen. This is one of the few remaining functional open-hearth kitchens in Louisiana, providing a look at 19th-century culinary practices through regular cooking demonstrations. The property also boasts the only remaining original and intact stable in the French Quarter, adding to its historical authenticity. Ownership of the house shifted from Samuel Hermann to the Grima family, who owned the property from 1844 to 1921. Today, the site is managed by The Woman's Exchange and is used to inspire discourse about the collective past and its relevance to the present and future.

Visitor tips

• Reservations are encouraged for tours to ensure entry.
• Plan your visit for Wednesday through Monday, as the house is closed on Tuesdays.
• Check social media for last-minute closures, especially during the Mardi Gras period or major U.S. holidays.
• Allow extra time to explore the expansive courtyard and the urban slave quarters.

Nearby context

Situated in the heart of the French Quarter, the Hermann-Grima House stands as a quiet contrast to the the surrounding bustling streets of Saint Louis Street, offering a deeper look at the historic domestic life of the 19th century.