New Orleans Public Library's Culture Pass
On June 22, the New Orleans African American Museum (NOAAM) was added to the New Orleans Public Library Culture Pass Program to preserve history and celebrate the rich culture of the Black community.
"Libraries and museums are among our most powerful public resources. Together, they preserve memory, expand access to knowledge, and invite people of all ages to see themselves reflected in history," Gia Hamilton, executive director and chief curator for the NOAAM, said in a press release. Hamilton is honored to join the Culture Pass Program and welcome new visitors to the museum, adding that she is excited to deepen opportunities for learning, discovery, and community connection in such a historic Black neighborhood such as Tremé.
The NOAAM Culture Pass admits one adult general admission from Thursday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Library cardholders can present the pass to the museum once reserved, where it will be redeemed for one admission ticket. Cardholders must reside in Orleans Parish and be over the age of 18 to reserve a Culture Pass. For all Culture Pass partners, you must reserve the pass in advance. For more information, visit the library's website.
Preserving The Historical Legacy
Founded in 1996, the NOAAM resides in the Tremé area of New Orleans, which was home to the nation's largest, prosperous, and politically progressive community of Black people by the mid-1850s. Claude Tremé, a hat maker and real estate developer, acquired the land occupied by the Morand Plantation and brickyard in the 18th century. Tremé then sold the land to the city of New Orleans and 1810, which then became home to many free persons of color.
Today, the neighborhood, city, and visitors from around the world are impacted by NOAAM, located at 1418 Governor Nicholls St. The museum strives to weave together historical analyses and contemporary reflections through immersive exhibitions and public programs that honor the lives of African Americans in Louisiana.
The architecture of Tremé also makes the museum and local area unique. You can see a mix of double shotgun houses, Creole cottages, and townhouses. The Meileur-Goldthwaire House, which was built in 1828, is a perfect example of the Creole architecture that makes up part of the NOAAAM campus. The museum is located near the St. Augustine Church, which is one of the oldest African American Catholic parishes in the nation. NOAAM is also surrounded by two other museums that educated those on Black culture: the Backstreet Cultural Museum and Tremé's Petit Jazz Museum.
This collaboration showcases the rich history and lasting impact that the African American community has had on the city of New Orleans.
