The Most Famous Person Buried in New Orleans, Ranked

Voting rules: Choose the person buried you think is the most famous!

Updated on May 2, 2024 07:10

New Orleans, a city rich with history and culture, is also the final resting place of many notable individuals whose contributions have left indelible marks. The city's cemeteries, often termed as 'cities of the dead', hold stories waiting to be told, offering insight into the lives that shaped not only a region but influenced the world. Ranking these individuals helps acknowledge their impact and connect us to our collective past. By participating in ranking, users contribute to a communal understanding of history's significance. Such a list not only sparks curiosity but also educates and engages the public in a dialogue about cultural and historical heritage. This interactive process ensures that the legacies of these important figures continue to inspire and resonate with current and future generations.

Who Is the Most Famous Person Buried in New Orleans?

1

55
votes

Frank Schneider (1881-1935), based on a (now lost?) painting by George Catlin. · Public domain

Marie Laveau

Marie Laveau is known as the "Voodoo Queen of New Orleans," Marie Laveau is one of the most famous figures in New Orleans history. Her grave in St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 is a popular attraction for tourists and locals alike.
2

19
votes

Homer Plessy

Plessy was a civil rights pioneer who challenged segregation laws in the landmark Supreme Court case Plessy v. Ferguson. He is buried in St. Louis Cemetery No. 1.
3

21
votes
World-Telegram staff photographer · Public domain

Louis Armstrong

Louis Armstrong - the legendary jazz musician and trumpeter, Louis Armstrong was born and raised in New Orleans. He is buried in Flushing Cemetery in Queens, New York.
Louis Armstrong in other rankings
- Position 1 of 10 in Most famous trumpet player
- Position 1 of 10 in Most famous person from Louisiana
- Position 2 of 10 in Most famous Armstrong
4

19
votes
Orlando Fernandez, World Telegram staff photographer · Public domain

Tennessee Williams

Tennessee Williams - the Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright, Tennessee Williams spent much of his life in New Orleans and is buried in St. Louis Cemetery No. 1.
Tennessee Williams in other rankings
- Position 2 of 10 in Most famous playwright
5

8
votes

City of Boston Archives · CC BY 2.0

Dutch Morial

Dutch Morial - the first African American mayor of New Orleans, Dutch Morial is buried in St. Louis Cemetery No. 3.
6

11
votes

AnonymousUnknown author · Public domain

Buddy Bolden

Buddy Bolden is known as the "father of jazz," Buddy Bolden was a pioneering jazz musician in the early 20th century. He is buried in Holt Cemetery.
7

9
votes

E.A. McIlhenny

E.A. McIlhenny - the former president of the famous Tabasco hot sauce company, E.A. McIlhenny is buried in Roselawn Cemetery.
8

8
votes
Heinrich Klaffs · CC BY-SA 2.0

Fats Domino

Fats Domino - another legendary musician from New Orleans, Fats Domino is buried in St. Louis Cemetery No. 2.
Fats Domino in other rankings
- Position 10 of 10 in Most famous person from Louisiana
9

4
votes

Charles Willson Peale · Public domain

Benjamin Henry Latrobe

Benjamin Henry Latrobe is a prominent architect who designed several important buildings in New Orleans, including the U.S. Custom House, Benjamin Henry Latrobe is buried in St. Louis Cemetery No. 1.
10

3
votes

Ron Kroon for Anefo · CC0

Al Hirt

Al Hirt is the famous jazz trumpeter and bandleader, Al Hirt was a fixture in the New Orleans music scene for decades. He is buried in Metairie Cemetery.

Missing your favorite person buried?

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Ranking factors for famous person buried

Historical Significance

Consider the historical impact and contributions of the person buried in New Orleans. Were they influential in local, national, or international affairs? Did they make significant contributions to their field or community?
Cultural Impact

Assess the cultural influence of the individual. Did they shape and influence the arts, music, literature, or any other cultural aspect? Did their work or ideas inspire and resonate with a wide audience?
Popularity and Recognition

Consider the level of fame and recognition the person achieved during their lifetime and beyond. Did they receive accolades, awards, or widespread acknowledgment for their achievements or talents?
Legacy

Examine the lasting impact of the individual and their contributions. Did they leave behind a significant legacy that continues to be celebrated or acknowledged? Did they contribute to the development and growth of New Orleans or make a lasting impact on society?
Relevance

Consider the person's relevance in relation to New Orleans itself. Were they a native of the city, or did they have a strong connection to its history, culture, or community?

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most famous person buried in New Orleans. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or corpse is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

2462 views
148 votes
10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each corpse once every 24 hours. The rank of each corpse is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

More information on most famous person buried in new orleans

New Orleans is known for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant music scene, and unique cuisine. However, the city is also the final resting place of many famous people who have left their mark on American history. From politicians to musicians, writers to athletes, New Orleans' cemeteries are home to some of the most iconic figures of our time. One such figure is Marie Laveau, the legendary voodoo queen of New Orleans. Her grave, located in St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, is one of the most visited in the city. Visitors leave offerings at her tomb, hoping for good luck or to have their wishes granted by the powerful spirit that is said to inhabit the area. Another notable figure buried in New Orleans is Homer Plessy, the civil rights activist who challenged segregation laws in the landmark Supreme Court case Plessy v. Ferguson. His grave, located in St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, is a must-visit for those interested in the history of civil rights in America. Other famous people buried in New Orleans include jazz musicians like Jelly Roll Morton and Al Hirt, as well as writers like Truman Capote and Lillian Hellman. Whether you're a history buff, a music lover, or just curious about the city's past, exploring the cemeteries of New Orleans is a fascinating and educational experience.