Neighborhoods: Treme


Tremé is a historic neighborhood in New Orleans, Louisiana, known for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant music scene, and significant contributions to the city’s African American and Creole culture. Here’s some information about Tremé:

  1. History: Tremé is one of the oldest neighborhoods in New Orleans and has a deep historical significance. It was originally settled by free people of color and formerly enslaved individuals in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Tremé became a hub for African American and Creole culture, with a strong emphasis on music, art, and community.
  2. Cultural Significance: Tremé has been a hotbed for African American and Creole art, music, and culture for centuries. The neighborhood has nurtured and produced many notable musicians, including jazz legends like Louis Armstrong, Sidney Bechet, and Jelly Roll Morton. The vibrant music scene in Tremé has had a profound influence on the development of jazz, blues, and other genres.
  3. Architecture: Tremé boasts a unique architectural heritage. The neighborhood is known for its colorful shotgun houses, Creole cottages, and historic buildings. Many of these structures have intricate ironwork, vibrant facades, and beautiful courtyards that reflect the cultural and architectural diversity of the area.
  4. Tremé Brass Band: The Tremé Brass Band is one of the most renowned brass bands in New Orleans and has played a pivotal role in preserving the traditional brass band music that originated in the neighborhood. The band continues to perform at local venues and festivals, keeping the spirit of Tremé’s music alive.
  5. Historic Landmarks: Tremé is home to several significant landmarks. The St. Augustine Church, founded in 1841, is one of the oldest African American Catholic churches in the United States. The Backstreet Cultural Museum is a repository of artifacts and memorabilia related to African American and Mardi Gras Indian culture. The neighborhood also includes Congo Square, a historic gathering place where enslaved individuals were allowed to gather and celebrate their African heritage through music, dance, and other cultural expressions.
  6. Tremé in Popular Culture: The neighborhood gained wider recognition through the HBO television series “Tremé,” which focused on the lives of musicians, artists, and residents in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. The show highlighted the resilience and vibrancy of the neighborhood’s cultural community.
  7. Festivals and Events: Tremé hosts various festivals and events throughout the year that celebrate its cultural heritage. The Tremé Fall Festival showcases local music, food, and crafts, while the Tremé Creole Gumbo Festival celebrates the neighborhood’s culinary traditions. These events attract both locals and visitors looking to experience the unique charm and cultural vibrancy of Tremé.

Tremé is a neighborhood that holds a special place in New Orleans’ cultural landscape. With its deep-rooted history, vibrant music scene, and strong sense of community, Tremé continues to be a significant cultural hub that celebrates the African American and Creole heritage of New Orleans.

New Orleans has a deep and rich history! Check out our recommendations for the best history tours!