The Nola Files

Doing Good - Featuring the great organizations we have had the pleasure to work with, those of us helping New Orleans tackle it's many issues / Curious Tourist - Some common questions about the city we hear from visitors / Interviews - Our chance to talk to interesting follks in hte community / The Index - This is a rolling A-Z of topics that have shaped the city / The Dirt - Our own ramblings, experiences and opinions

Curious Tourist

Did New Orleans used to be a swamp?

Yes, the area that is now New Orleans was originally a swamp. The city is located on a bend in the Mississippi River, which made the land low-lying and prone to flooding. The soil in the area is a...

What Native American tribes lived in the New Orleans area?

Several Native American tribes lived in the New Orleans area before European settlement. Some of the tribes that lived in the area include: The Houma Nation: This group of tribes, which included...

Why is it called Tchoupitoulas Street?

Tchoupitoulas Street in New Orleans is named after the Tchoupitoulas Native American tribe, which lived in the area prior to European settlement. The Tchoupitoulas were part of the Houma Nation, a...

Where do some of the streets in New Orleans get their names?

New Orleans has a rich history, and many of its street names reflect this. Some examples include: Bourbon Street: Named after the French royal family of the Bourbons, this street was originally ...

Carondelet Street

Carondelet Street in New Orleans is named after Francisco Luis Hector, Baron de Carondelet, who served as the Spanish Governor of Louisiana from 1791 to 1797. Carondelet was appointed by King Char...

Are their Underground Canals in New Orleans?

Yes, there are underground canals in New Orleans. The city's canal system is made up of a network of underground and above-ground channels that were built in the 19th century to help control flood...

The Dew Drop Inn

In the vibrant tapestry of New Orleans' musical and cultural history, few establishments resonate as powerfully as the Dew Drop Inn. Once a thriving epicenter of Black entertainment during the mid...

Why is it called Pirate's Alley?

Pirate's Alley is a narrow, pedestrian-only lane located in the French Quarter of New Orleans. It runs between Royal Street and Chartres Street, and it is known for its historic architecture, char...

When the Saints Go Marching In

"When the Saints Go Marching In," also known as "The Saints," is a traditional gospel hymn that is closely associated with New Orleans and its musical heritage. The origins of the song can be trac...

The IndexThe Neville Brothers - Dirty Coast

The Neville Brothers

The Neville Brothers are a band that needs no introduction. With a career spanning more than four decades, they have become one of the most influential families in music history. The Neville Broth...

The IndexMahalia Jackson - Dirty Coast

Mahalia Jackson

Mahalia Jackson was born Mahalia Ann Julia in New Orleans, Louisiana, on October 26, 1911. She was one of nine children born to Rev. Joseph and Mahala Jackson. From a young age, Mahalia showed an ...

The IndexIrma Thomas - Dirty Coast

Irma Thomas

If you want to know what soul music is, look no further than Irma Thomas. Often referred to as the "Queen of Soul" of New Orleans, Irma has been performing for over 50 years. She started her caree...

The Journal

Here we share things we find interesting about New Orleans and the Gulf South, organizations and people that deserve more attention and answer some questions about the area.

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