Lafayette Cemetery #1 was established in 1833 on the site of the former Livaudais Sugar Plantation.

Many of those buried in Lafayette #1 died in epidemics that swept through New Orleans and its suburbs in the 1800’s.  As a result you will see tablets that state the length of life in detail, e.g., “Jacob J. Wagner departed this life January 4th 1848. Age 33 years 6 months and 4 days.”

Lafayette Cemetery holds the remains of citizens from twenty five different countries.  The cemetery was never segregated by race, ethnicity, or religious denomination.

In addition to the family tombs, Lafayette has a number of large tombs known as “society” tombs.  These are group tombs for members of occupational, ethnic, fraternal, or benevolent associations.  Benevolent associations were a way to pool resources, find housing and employment, deal with medical and immigration issues, and provide affordable burial for members and their families.  

Movie companies have filmed a number of productions here.  They range from the very good to the mediocre.  Double Jeopardy, Interview with The Vampire, Skeleton Key and Dracula 2000 are a few of the movies set here.

Hours of operation Lafayette Cemetery #1: Monday through Friday 8:30 – 2:30 PM.  Saturday 8:30 - Noon.  Closed: Sundays, all federal holidays, Thanksgiving, Easter, Christmas, Mardi Gras.

Tours begin at the main gate at 1400 Washington Avenue, 70015. The cemetery is bounded by Washington Ave.,  Prytania St., Coliseum St., and Sixth St. Lafayette Cemetery is one block from the St. Charles streetcar line.  From the time you board, the ride takes about 15 minutes, but delays are always possible. Parking in the neighborhood is free.

Tours are $10.00 per person and one hour long.  Ask about discounts for groups of 10 or more traveling together, student groups, or volunteer groups. Schedule your tour by calling 504-914-2039 or via email at info@tour-new-orleans.com.