Historic New Orleans Collection
Visit 533 Royal Street in the French Quarter Tuesday through Saturday from 9:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. and tour the historical galleries. Get a peek into New Orleans history at Williams Residence, with guided tours at 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 2 p.m., and 3 p.m. You can also request a private tour for groups of 8+.
The Historic New Orleans Collection (HNOC) was founded in 1966 by General L. Kemper Williams and Leila Williams. It’s dedicated to preserving the history of New Orleans and specifically the French Quarter. There are seven architectural gems within the Royal Street Complex as well as the Williams Research Center. Visit the Merieult House, Counting House, Maisonette, Townhouse, Louis Adams House, and Creole Cottage.
What to Expect
At Merieult House, which is home to the Williams Gallery, you’ll find the Louisiana History Galleries and gift shop. The land has been in use since 1720. What was once workmen’s barracks, king’s forges, and property of the French Crown is now a cultural treasure. The Counting House boasts a Grand Greek revival room and was previously a bank.
The Maisonette is a three-story building housing wooden galleries. It’s now an administrative building. Williams Residence is a primary HNOC attraction and was the Williams’ home. It features mid-century décor. The Townhouse is the newest addition, added in 1980 and home to the photography department. The Louis Adam House is a masonry on Toulouse Street with Spanish colonial styles.
Which will you tour first?