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New Orleans, Orleans Parish / History

Toby's Corner

Known as the oldest building in the Garden District, this 1838 Greek Revival suburban villa offers a glimpse into early New Orleans luxury and local legend.

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What is Toby's Corner known for?

Toby's Corner, also known as the Toby-Westfeldt House, is a Greek Revival-style suburban villa built in 1838. It is said to be the oldest building in New Orleans' Garden District neighborhood.

Where is Toby's Corner located?

Toby's Corner is located at 2340 Prytania Street in the Garden District of New Orleans.

Who built the house and what happened to it?

The house was built by Thomas Toby in 1838, though he later lost the home to foreclosure in 1858.

Is there any interesting trivia about Toby's Corner?

A local anecdote suggests that the house may have served as a model for the haunted house at Disneyland in Anaheim, California.

What should I check before going?

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

What to know

Toby’s Corner, formally known as the Toby-Westfeldt House, stands as a premier example of Greek Revival architecture. Built in 1838 by Thomas Toby, this structure is widely recognized as the oldest building within the Garden District neighborhood. Designed as a suburban villa, it represents the early residential expansion of New Orleans into the surrounding areas. The history of the estate is marked by both grandeur and loss. While Thomas Toby established this architectural masterpiece in 1838, his tenure as owner ended abruptly twenty years later. In 1858, Toby lost the home to foreclosure, marking a turning point in the property's ownership history. Located at 2340 Prytania Street, the house remains a focal point for those exploring the historic residential streets of the city. Its enduring presence has made it a staple of local walking tours, serving as a benchmark for the age and style of the surrounding mansions. Beyond its architectural merit, the house is surrounded by local lore. A popular anecdote suggests that the distinct look of the Toby-Westfeldt House may have served as a visual model for the famous haunted house attraction at Disneyland in Anaheim, California.

Visitor tips

  • View the house from the sidewalk at 2340 Prytania Street to appreciate the Greek Revival details.
  • Combine this stop with other Garden District mansions to see the evolution of the neighborhood's style.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes, as this site is best experienced as part of a larger neighborhood stroll.

Nearby context

Toby's Corner is situated in the heart of New Orleans' Garden District on Prytania Street, an area famous for its lush greenery and historic mansions.

Sources

Evidence and links