About a year or so ago, Yale University opened up their digital archive of photos that were commissioned by the Civilian Corps program during the late 1930s and early 1940s. Of course, there were some breathtaking ones of Louisiana–and New Orleans in particular during this time. We think you’ll be amazed by the spirit of the city they were able to capture!

1) Older couple in Jackson Square
Programmar.yale.edu / Ben Shahn
You can still recognize the Jackson Square park that is still standing today from this pic.
2) Saloon in Decatur St., 1938
Programmar.yale.edu / Russell Lee
Perhaps more than any other in this group, I feel like I could take this shot in a bar in New Orleans today.
3) The Dog House, 1940
Programmar.yale.edu / Marion Post Wolcott
The signs pictured here really amaze me...there's just nothing quite like that craftsmanship anymore.
4) Aunt Sally’s Pralines, 1941
Programmar.yale.edu / Marion Post Wolcott
Hard to believe this was the start of what has now become an iconic brand, Aunt Sally's.
5) French Market, 1936
Programmar.yale.edu / Carl Mydans
While the market doesn’t look quite like this today, it’s still lovely. The nun's hats here are really something special.
6) Sunday Afternoon, 1941
Programmar.yale.edu / Marion Post Wolcott
The more things change...the more things stay the same.

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7) House on Rampart St.
Programmar.yale.edu / Walker Evans
Amazing example of the New Orleans classic revival home--which you can still see examples of on Rampart Street today.
8) Bear in the Street, 1935
Programmar.yale.edu / Carl Mydans
This one really makes you wonder what was going on right before the photographer took a pic!
9) Southern Seed & Feed, 1935
Programmar.yale.edu / Walker Evans
I love to see the amazing antique cars found along the roads of this city.
10) Billboard, 1943
Programmar.yale.edu / John Vachon
It's funny to see how billboards have evolved since these early times.
11) An Old Sailor in Jackson Square
Programmar.yale.edu / Ben Shahn
So much soul in this old man's eyes---not surprising he was found on the benches in New Orleans.
12) French Market 1936
Programmar.yale.edu / Carl Mydans
Wow I just love the gorgeous bounty that is found in this photo.

Isn’t that an amazing collection of beautiful vintage New Orleans photos? I think they really display something special about the spirit of our lovely city. Let us know which ones were your favorites–and why. We love to hear your feedback.

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