Located in the heart of the historic French Quarter is the Hermann-Grima House, thought to be the finest example of American architecture in the area.
Built in 1831, this Federal mansion boasts the only stable and functional outdoor kitchen in the French Quarter. The mansion has been beautifully restored through historic research and archaeological studies, and accurately depicts the gracious lifestyle of a wealthy Creole family from 1830 to 1860.
Some of the features visitors will find in the elegant Hermann-Grima House include original family portraits of Sam Hermann, Sr., and two of his children, Lucien and Marie Virginie. In the dining room, the visitor will find the original mahogany dining table and delicately etched oversized hurricane shades, recently donated by Grima family descendents. Throughout the house, the visitor can get a glimpse of the furnishings and accessories typical of an elegant French Quarter residence.
Visitors can tour the original stables, the outdoor kitchen with the open hearth for cooking, and a meticulously restored courtyard with citrus trees and antique roses.
Throughout the year, the Hermann-Grima House dons historically accurate traditional dress. One of the most fascinating thematic tours occurs during October, when the house is dressed in its Creole mourning clothes, and the home is decorated as if the occupants are in mourning. December brings fabulous holiday décor, complete with a table filled with sumptuous desserts of the season.
Tickets: $15 adults, $12 children, discounts for military, seniors, students. Combo tickets available for both Hermann-Grima House and Gallier House.
For more information about the Hermann-Grima House and its sister house, Gallier House, call (504) 525-5661, or visit www.hgghh.org.
