Great Fires of New Orleans (2023 Introduction)
Published 2023-06-22
The first Great Fire of New Orleans began at 619 Charter Street on Good Friday, in May of 1788 at the home of army treasurer, (Don Vincente Jose Nunez,), just one block from the Plaza de Armes, known today as Jackson Square.
The story claims that (Don Vicente) who was Catholic (like many under both the French and Spanish occupation were), created an altar of candles in his home and that one of the candles (when left unattended) caught the drapes on fire.
Because it was on Good Friday, the priest, (Pere Antoine) refused to allow the church bells to ring to alert the fire brigade (including the local residents). With help from a southeasterly wind, the fire spread causing 80% of the French Quarter to burn, reducing 856 of the 1100 homes and buildings to ashes.
Governor (Esteban Rodriquez Miro) swiftly sprang into action, and tents for shelter were built along the waterfront for the homeless within 24 hours.
Music Credits:
Double Agent - Everet Almond
Drop and Roll - Silent Partner
Jazz Me Blues - E's Jammy Jams
Down The Street Blues - Unicorn Heads
All Comments (10)
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I can't wait to share this video with my friends and family to spread awareness about the Great Fires of New Orleans
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The reenactments in this video really bring the story to life
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This video really highlights the importance of fire safety and prevention
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It's really interesting to learn about the history of New Orleans and how these fires shaped the city
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The fact that the priest refused to allow the church bells to ring is both heartbreaking and fascinating
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I had always heard about the Mardi Gras celebrations in New Orleans, but had never heard about these fires before
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I can't even imagine what it must have been like to witness a fire of that magnitude back in the late s
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It's crazy to think that something as simple as an unattended candle could cause such a huge disaster
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I wonder how the city was able to rebuild after such devastating fires
