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New Orleans, Orleans Parish / History

St. Louis Cemetery No. 3

Established in 1853, this historic Catholic cemetery on Esplanade Avenue showcases New Orleans' unique above-ground burial customs through elaborate 19th-century marble tombs and diverse architectural styles.

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St. Louis Cemetery No. 3
www.nolacatholiccemeteries.org, website_hero_img_www.nolacatholiccemeteries.org

Where is St. Louis Cemetery No. 3 located?

It is located at 3421 Esplanade Avenue in New Orleans, Louisiana, near City Park and Bayou St. John.

What is the cemetery known for?

It is a Catholic cemetery known for illustrating New Orleans burial customs and for having crypts that are more elaborate and decorative on average than other St. Louis cemeteries, featuring fine 19th-century marble tombs.

Who is buried at St. Louis Cemetery No. 3?

Notable burials include chef and civil rights leader Leah Chase, photographer E. J. Bellocq, architect James Gallier, ragtime composer Paul Sarebresole, and painter Ralston Crawford.

What is the history of the cemetery?

Established in 1853 (or opened in 1854) on the former site of a leper colony, it was built as a response to the yellow fever epidemic of 1852.

What architectural styles can be seen there?

The cemetery features tombs influenced by Gothic, Egyptian, Baroque, Byzantine, and Greek and Roman styles, constructed from materials such as granite, precast concrete, and marble.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

St. Louis Cemetery No. 3 is a historic Catholic burial ground located at 3421 Esplanade Avenue near City Park. Established in 1853 as a response to the yellow fever epidemic of 1852, the site was built upon the former location of a leper colony. This cemetery serves as a primary illustration of the distinct above-ground burial customs of New Orleans. The site is renowned for its architectural diversity. Its crypts are generally more elaborate than those found in other St. Louis cemeteries, featuring stunning 19th-century marble tombs. Visitors can find structures influenced by Gothic, Egyptian, Baroque, Byzantine, Greek, and Roman styles, constructed from materials such as granite and precast concrete. Modern additions include the St. Mark Memorial mausoleum from 1966 and the 2015 St. Teresa Garden Mausoleum and Serenity Garden Columbarium. The grounds hold the remains of several influential figures. Notable burials include the Storyville photographer E.J. Bellocq, the ragtime composer Paul Sarebresole, and the painter Ralston Crawford. Other distinguished residents include the architect James Gallier and the renowned New Orleans chef and civil rights leader Leah Chase. Despite the challenges of the city's environment, the cemetery has shown remarkable resilience. During the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina in 2005, the grounds were heavily flooded, but the marble tombs remained relatively unscathed.

Visitor tips

  • Consider booking a guided tour, which typically lasts about 1.5 hours.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes for navigating the cemetery grounds.
  • Be mindful of the quiet and respectful atmosphere required in a burial ground.

Nearby context

Located on Esplanade Avenue, the cemetery is situated near the tranquil Bayou St. John and City Park, providing a serene backdrop to its historic tombs.

Sources

Evidence and links