MARBLE ORCHARD CEMETERY PHOTOGRAPHY
Photography by A. Louise Weston
St. Louis Cemetery No. 1
New Orleans, LA
Opened in 1789, St. Louis #1 is the oldest and most significant existing cemetery in New Orleans. It is the burial ground of some of the most illustrious citizens of New Orleans. Notable structures include the famed oven wall vaults, and the resting place of Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau.Peter Fonda s Easy Rider filmed the famous acid trip scene here and it still draws tourists to this day. We heard more than one family talking about the movie and taking pictures of where Dennis Hopper dragged the prostitute. Because of this film the Archdiocese, which owns Saint Louis #1, does not allow any movies to shoot here.I think is important to note that some damage had been done to the cemetery by Katrina. Like most of the rest of the city, the restoration is coming along very well.
As of March 1, 2015, the Roman Catholic Diocese of New Orleans has closed it to the general public, citing the rise in vandalism there. The diocese is allowing tour companies access for a fee of $4,500 per year. Families. however, who own tombs can apply for a pass to visit.
