The Voodoo Queen of New Orleans

 

Marie Catherine Laveau was born in New Orleans, Louisiana on September 10, 1801, at a time when that future state was still under Spanish rule.  While slavery was still the law, she was born a free woman of color to her unwed mother Marguerite.  The identity of her father has never been conclusively confirmed, but many historians point to a local politician named Charles Laveau.

Today, Laveau is a folk figure known for her practice of the occult.  What is often forgotten is that she was also a shrewd businesswoman.  She owned a beauty parlor, catering to the elite and upper class of society, many of whom felt free to gossip while in her care.  Laveau would later use the information she'd overheard to enhance her reputation as a clairvoyant.  

She became a celebrated voodoo practitioner with three locations throughout the Big Easy.  Like the Miss Cleo commercials that would come two centuries later, Laveau's clients wanted help with their families, their finances, and their love lives.  She was so popular that she was named the third female leader of voodoo in New Orleans, a less-than official office granting her the titles of Queen and Priestess.

Marie Laveau died on June 15, 1881, at the age of 79.  She was entombed in Saint Louis Cemetery #1 just outside the French Quarter in New Orleans, ensuring that she would not return as a zombie.  Legend tells that if you draw three Xs on the tomb and leave an offering, your wish will be granted.

Rest in peace.

Trivia

• If you want to learn more about Marie Laveau, take a voyage to Amazon.  Its all in books.
  
  
• In 1974, country singer Bobby Bare released his single Marie Laveau, a tribute to the Voodoo Queen.  It was an overnight success, reaching the top spot on the Billboard country chart.  Take a listen on YouTube.
  
  
• A number of documentaries on voodoo and Marie Laveau have been produced over the years, including the History Channel's The Truth of Voodoo Revealed, hosted by Leaonard Nimoy.  Check it out on YouTube.
  
  
• Not only is Laveau's grave a tourist attraction in New Orleans, but her house is as well - sort of.  The original structure was torn down in 1903, but today, the house built on its foundation welcomes visitors and their wallets for guided tours.  Interested?  Visit Ghost City Tours for more information.
  
  
• Although a free woman of color herself, Laveau owned many slaves.
  
  
• Vlogger Jacob the Carpetbagger toured the cemetery and Laveau's grave in 2018.  Check out his video on YouTube.
  
  
• While this blogger has visited hundreds of graves throughout the United States, this is the only one that charged an admission fee.  Saint Louis Cemetery is by guided tour only.