What is the Women's Opera Guild House known for?

It is known as a base for the cultivation of New Orleans' artistic scene and is a historic residence that combines Greek Revival, Italianate, and Queen Anne architectural styles.

The house is located at 2504 Prytania Street, on the corner of Second Street in the New Orleans Garden District.

What is the history of the building?

Originally built in 1858 for merchant Edward Davis and designed by William Freret, the house was later acquired by Dr. Herman and Nettie Seebold in 1944. Upon her death in 1966, Nettie Seebold willed the home and its furnishings to the Guild to be maintained in perpetuity.

What are the architectural highlights of the house?

Notable features include an octagonal bay (or turret) added in the late 19th century, cast-iron balustrades, and Corinthian and Ionic columns.

Can you rent the house for events?

Yes, the house is available for rent for various events, including luncheons, dinners, weddings, and film shoots, with proceeds supporting the New Orleans Opera Association.

What should I check before going?

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

Women's Opera Guild House in New Orleans

Women's Opera Guild House

An architectural gem in the Garden District, this 1858 mansion blends Greek Revival and Italianate styles and now serves as a fund-raising venue for the New Orleans Opera Association.

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What to know

Located at 2504 Prytania Street, the Women's Opera Guild House is a stunning example of mid-19th century residential architecture. The original structure was built in 1858 for a merchant named Edward Davis and was designed by architect William A. Freret. The home is celebrated for its eclectic blend of Greek Revival and Italianate styles, featuring an elegant front door glass design and a mix of Corinthian and Ionic columns. As the house evolved, it incorporated newer trends. In the late 19th century, a distinctive octagonal bay and turret were added to the structure, introducing elements of the Queen Anne style along with a delicate entablature. The exterior is further embellished with cast-iron balustrades and intricate detailing around the uppermost windows, all protected behind an intricate iron gate. In 1944, Dr. Herman Seebold and his wife Nettie purchased the residence for $12,500. Nettie Seebold was a dedicated member of the Women's Guild of the New Orleans Opera from its founding until her death in 1966. Having no children, she willed the house, its grounds, and all furnishings to the Guild to be maintained in perpetuity. Since 1996, the former Davis/Seebold Residence has officially served as the home of the Women's Guild. Today, the pristine mansion acts as a base for the cultivation of the local artistic scene and operates as an event rental venue for weddings, dinners, and film shoots, with all proceeds supporting the New Orleans Opera Association.

Visitor tips

View the home from the sidewalk to appreciate the Corinthian and Ionic columns.
Look closely at the octagonal turret, which was added later in the 19th century.
Wear comfortable walking shoes as this is a prime stop on a Garden District architectural stroll.

Nearby context

Situated in the heart of the New Orleans Garden District at the corner of Prytania Street and Second Street, this mansion is surrounded by some of the city's most opulent historic estates.