Because of its cultural roots, geographic importance, and easy-going ways, New Orleans has been a magnet for creative people since the 18th century. A great many writers and artists came here to live, and, like Tennessee Williams, called New Orleans their spiritual home. Others, like Louis Armstrong, were born here. Nurtured by its culture, they carried their musical, literary, and artistic creations to the rest of the world.
Truman Capote
This famous author was born in Touro Infirmary in the Garden District. He wrote his first work, Other Voices, Other Rooms, in a rented room at 711 Royal St.
Marie Laveau
The most famous voodoo queen in New Orleans, Laveau celebrated her rituals on the banks of Bayou St. John.
Anne Rice
Born in New Orleans, author Anne Rice attended Redemptorist School and once lived at 1239 First Street in the Garden District. The city stars in her Vampire Chronicles.
Mahalia Jackson
This gospel singer was born on Water Street and grew up at an aunt's house at 7467 Esther Street.
Louis Armstrong
Born in a shack at 2723 Jane Alley, Louis Armstrong strongly influenced the development of solo jazz performances. Armstrong Park, near the French Quarter, and the city's airport are named after him.
William Faulkner
His first novel, Soldier's Pay, was written at 624 Pirate's Alley, when he was living in the city in 1925.
Andrew Jackson
This general won the Battle of New Orleans in 1815 at Chalmette Battlefield.
John James Audubon
Throughout his career the noted naturalist and painter lived on the edge of poverty, first at 706 Barracks Street, then at Oakley House plantation, where he stayed in 1821.
Edgar Degas
The French painter visited the city in 1872-73. During this period he painted many well-known pictures and portraits
