An Overview of the History of Treme, New Orleans

One of the most vibrant neighborhoods in the country, Tremé is a jewel in the crown of New Orleans. 

A historic neighborhood with roots back to the 1700s, innovation has always been at the heart of Tremé, leading to a cultural blend that wows its many residents and visitors. 

So, what exactly is the history of Tremé, New Orleans?

From Plantation to Thriving Neighborhood

One of the oldest neighborhoods in New Orleans, Tremé was a busy plantation in the 17th century. Located just outside of the French Quarter, it’s now considered the cultural ground zero of New Orleans and has seen plenty of history over the years. 

Named after Claude Tremé, a hatmaker and real estate developer who bought the land, the neighborhood soon became a home for free persons and black slaves. In 1794, Tremé received a big boost when the Spanish government commissioned the Claiborne Canal, linking it to Bayou St. John. This made it ripe for development and soon, a bustling, vibrant neighborhood began to spring up. 

Green Spaces and Thriving Businesses 

Throughout the 18th and early 19th centuries, Tremé continued to grow and thrive. 

From the original area of land designated for free persons and black slaves sprung the iconic Congo Square, where people would congregate to play music and sell goods. It became a cultural melting pot, where ideas were shared, and entrepreneurship thrived. 

The area was also known for its beautiful green spaces around North Claiborne Avenue. With a wonderful green strip dividing the two directions of traffic, and hundreds of Oak trees lining the trees, it was an ideal place to gather and pass the time. 

With over one hundred businesses in the area, it was seen as an alternative to Canal Street, another commercial area in New Orleans, but that was all about to change. Unfortunately for Tremé, updates to the interstate highway system saw an elevated expressway replace the neutral ground, taking away the green space and forcing businesses to relocate. 

This was a great shame, but fortunately, Tremé still retains many open spaces and thriving businesses. 

Tremé’s Cultural History 

You can’t make a history of Tremé, New Orleans without referencing culture. 

As soon as you enter this neighborhood, you’re struck by the architecture, the vibrancy, and that New Orleans feel. 

Tremé’s unique culture has been forged over centuries, and it’s been at the forefront of many of the things we hold dear today. 

In politics, Tremé became largely self-sufficient, leading the way to creating a “race-blind” city as far back as 1865. This led to integration in schools, streetcars, and other areas of everyday life. Unfortunately, these hard-fought freedoms were rolled back during the segregation years, but Tremé continued to build its cultural history and push for its values. 

Tremé didn’t just lead the way in its political outlook though, it was constantly innovating in many areas, and perhaps none more so than in music. Jazz was born in Tremé’s bars and dance halls, and in many ways, laid the foundation for the music we listen to today. 

The Parks and Outdoor Spaces of Tremé

Part of the charm of Tremé is its outdoor spaces, the most prominent of which is named after one of New Orleans’ most famous sons – Louis Armstrong Park.

The park, which contains the original Congo Square is dedicated to the music Tremé brought to the world, personified by the iconic Louis Armstrong. 

Years ago, this was where freemen and black slaves would gather on Sundays to sing, play the drums, and celebrate the day, and few things capture the culture of New Orleans better than Louis Armstrong Park. 

Today, it regularly hosts weddings festivals, concerts, Martin Luther King Day celebrations, and much more. 

The Oldest African American Parish in the United States

Tremé is home to the oldest African American Catholic parish in the United States. 

The St Augustine Church was founded in 1841 and sits on the corner of Governor Nicholls and Henriette Delille street. To the side of the church, you can find the Tomb of the Unknown Slave, a poignant reminder of the struggles people in Tremé have faced. 

The chain cross, resting on its side, is a beautiful monument and a point to the history of this beautiful New Orleans neighborhood.

Creole Architecture

A poignant part of the culture and history of Tremé, New Orleans is the Creole architecture. So many people are drawn to the vibrancy of New Orleans, and Creole architecture helps to define this. 

With beautiful 1830s cottages, townhouses from the 1840s, and double shotguns dating back to the 1890s Tremé offers something truly unique. While the neighborhood struggled in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, it never lost its spirit, and these properties exemplify the resoluteness of the people of New Orleans.

Take in the History of Tremé

Whether you’re a resident or visitor, If you’re interested in the history of Tremé, then you’re in luck! 

With amazing museums, there’s plenty to do and see for the history lovers out there. Take in the culture, and explore the journey of how Tremé left its print on the United States and the world.

1. New Orleans African American Museum

2. Backstreet Cultural Museum

3. Tremé’s Petit Jazz museum

In a neighborhood with such incredible history, it’s almost obligatory to visit these museums at least once in your lifetime!

Tremé Real Estate

Tremé isn’t just a cultural hub – it’s also a great place to live.

If you’re looking for that classic New Orleans vibe, then there can hardly be a better place. Offering amazing architecture and homes of all sizes, there’s something for everyone in this New Orleans neighborhood.

As you might expect in such a historic neighborhood, competition for houses can be tough, but this is where it’s important to work with an experienced real estate agent. 

Tremé is world-famous for its culture, and this is something many people want to be a part of. With Reve Realtors, you can make it a reality. 

You know the history of Tremé, New Orleans, now take the first step on your property search.