Neighborhood Overview
The Leonidas neighborhood, also commonly known as Pigeon Town or Pension Town by longtime residents, represents one of New Orleans' authentic working-class communities with deep cultural traditions and resilient spirit. Located in the northwest section of the city, bounded by Claiborne Avenue, Earhart Boulevard, Joliet Street, and the Jefferson Parish line, this area developed primarily in the early 20th century as a diverse neighborhood of laborers, craftspeople, and families seeking affordable housing close to industrial employment. Though often overlooked in broader narratives about New Orleans, Leonidas/Pigeon Town has maintained a strong community identity while adapting to economic shifts, post-Katrina recovery challenges, and more recent development pressures from adjacent neighborhoods.
Quick Facts
- Population: Approximately 7,500 residents (recovered to about 85% of pre-Katrina levels)
- Demographics: Predominantly African American (80%), with historic diversity and growing Latino population in recent years
- Housing: Mix of shotgun homes, bungalows, multi-family conversions, and modest new construction
- Historic Significance: Once home to significant industrial operations, birthplace of numerous musical innovations including bounce music, site of strong civil rights organizing, and home to longstanding cultural traditions including second lines and social aid and pleasure clubs
Free Spaces
Palmer Park
Carrollton Ave. & S. Claiborne Ave., New Orleans, LA 70118
A historic public park that anchors the neighborhood’s northern edge. Known for its shady oaks, open-air art markets (held monthly), and family-friendly events, Palmer Park is one of the city’s oldest green spaces and completely free to visit.
Leonidas Green Infrastructure & Rain Garden Sites
Along Leonidas Dr. between Spruce & Belfast Streets
Community-led projects that manage stormwater through native plants and rain gardens. These small public installations double as peaceful green pockets and examples of sustainable neighborhood design.
Pigeon Town Steppers Social Aid & Pleasure Clubhouse
Corner of Mistletoe & General Ogden Streets, New Orleans, LA 70118
A cultural landmark where one of the city’s iconic second-line groups hosts gatherings and parades. Visitors can view murals and photos on the building’s exterior — a living museum of New Orleans street culture.
Carrollton–Leonidas Bike & Walking Route
Starting near Carrollton & Monroe Streets
A self-guided route through quiet residential blocks lined with historic cottages and small neighborhood businesses. Perfect for seeing how the community is preserving its character while adapting to new development.
Oak Street Corridor Murals & Pocket Parks
Oak St. between Carrollton Ave. & Leonidas St.
Colorful murals, café patios, and public art decorate this local corridor. Small pocket parks and benches along Oak make it an easy and free cultural stroll, especially during the annual Oak Street Po-Boy Festival (free entry).
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