Famous New Orleans Madams: A Glimpse into the City's Rich History
New Orleans, with its vibrant culture, has long been a hub for intrigue and mystique. Among the city's most fascinating figures are the famous madams who once ruled the city's red-light districts. These women were not just business owners; they were powerful figures who shaped the city's social and political landscape. Let's delve into the lives of some of the most famous New Orleans madams.
Lulu White: The Queen of Storyville
Lulu White, born Louise Michelle Wilson, was one of the most influential madams in New Orleans' history. She opened the Mahogany Hall in 1897, which became the most famous brothel in Storyville, the city's legal red-light district. White was known for her extravagant parties and her influence over the city's politics. She was even rumored to have helped elect a mayor. Her story is a testament to the power and influence these women held.
Norma Wallace: The Last of the Madams
Norma Wallace, born Norma Zehner, was the last of the famous New Orleans madams. She ran the French 700 Club, a high-end brothel, from the 1930s to the 1960s. Unlike other madams, Wallace was known for her discretion and her ability to keep her clients' identities a secret. She was also known for her philanthropy, donating to various charities around the city.
Other Notable Madams
- Josie Arlington: Known for her lavish parties and her influence over the city's politics, Arlington was one of the most powerful madams in Storyville.
- Belle Becker: Becker was a madam who ran a brothel in the French Quarter. She was known for her beauty and her sharp business acumen.
- Hattie Devore: Devore was a madam who ran a brothel in the 1940s and 1950s. She was known for her generosity and her kindness to her employees.
The Legacy of the Famous New Orleans Madams
The legacy of these women is complex. On one hand, they were business owners who provided a service that was in demand. On the other hand, they were profiting from the exploitation of vulnerable women. However, their influence over the city's politics and their philanthropy cannot be denied. They were powerful women who left a lasting impact on New Orleans.
Visiting the Sites of the Famous New Orleans Madams
Today, visitors to New Orleans can explore the sites where these famous madams once held court. The Mahogany Hall, for instance, is now a private residence, but it's still possible to see the exterior. The French 700 Club, meanwhile, is now a restaurant. While the interiors may have changed, the history of these places remains palpable.
Famous New Orleans Madams in Popular Culture
The story of the famous New Orleans madams has inspired numerous books, movies, and TV shows. Anne Rice's novel "Feast of All Saints" features a madam named Mama LeBlanc, who is believed to be based on Lulu White. The HBO series "Treme" also features a storyline about a madam in post-Katrina New Orleans.
These women were more than just madams; they were entrepreneurs, philanthropists, and political power players. Their stories are a fascinating part of New Orleans' rich history. While their businesses may no longer exist, their legacy lives on in the city's culture and folklore.
