French Market Inn - New Orleans, LA (The Baroness and the Bloody Handprints)

Photo courtesy of www.frenchmarketinn.com

501 Decatur St.

New Orleans, LA 70130

29.955275,-90.064234

www.frenchmarketinn.com 

            A quick stroll down Decatur Street and you will quickly see this is the busiest street in the French Quarter. With plenty of two-way traffic, street performers, artists and horse carriages, it’s hard to stop and smell the roses; or shall I say the horse manure! In the 1800’s this area was also known as a rough and rugged place, not always housing society’s finest. Located close to the river, this area was a regular hangout for thieves, prostitutes and other unfortunates of the time. Ironically, this area is also home to the picturesque Jackson Square. As you wander down Decatur, amidst the commotion, you may encounter an interesting little inn, rumored to have some very unique paranormal activity.

Bienville House Hotel - New Orleans, LA (The Old Hag Syndrome)

320 Decatur St.

New Orleans, LA 70130

29.953903,-90.065302

www.bienvillehouse.com

            Located on busy Decatur Street is a cozy hotel only a stone’s throw from the mighty Mississippi River. The Bienville House was built in the early 1800’s and was initially occupied by Planters Rice Mills and served as a large mill complex. The space then became home to Thompson’s Rice Mill and Southern Syrup Manufacturing where this business operated for several years. In 1835, the building was completely remodeled and opened as the North American Hotel. For the era, the hotel was known as an extremely nice place to stay.
            The classy little hotel only operated for two years, when the owners parted ways and sold the building in 1837. The former hotel was split into a small French Quarter hotel for boarders and a fire house. I suppose it was pretty convenient, as when things got a little hot and heavy in the rooms, the fireman were nearby to dowse the flames!