One Of The Least Visited Cemeteries In New Orleans Has A Fascinating History

St. Roch Cemetery in New Orleans is a historic site founded during a Yellow Fever outbreak, known for its chapel and unique offerings.

New Orleans’ cemeteries are one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city. From famed authors to Voodoo Queens, some of New Orleans’ most notable figures are laid to rest in these tombs, and it’s worth your while to schedule a tour to visit some of these haunting beautiful attractions. This one particular cemetery may not be as popular as some of the others, but the history behind it is truly fascinating.

You’ll find St. Roch Cemetery with the St. Roch neighborhood of New Orleans.

The cemetery was founded by Reverend P.L. Thevis in 1874.

During this time, there was a massive Yellow Fever outbreak in New Orleans, killing thousands of people. Reverend Thevis prayed to St. Roch, the patron saint of protection from epidemics, to spare his community from this plague.

No one from Reverend Thevis’ community died from Yellow Fever, and as part of his promise to St. Roch, he built a chapel to honor him.

You’ll find the chapel inside of the cemetery.

There are several offerings left inside the chapel, offerings from those looking for healing. Prosthetic limbs, crutches, braces, and other items line the walls.

And several thank you notes from those who have had their prayers answered.

You can find St. Roch Cemetery at 1725 St Roch Ave., New Orleans, LA 70117.

Have you ever been? Let us know in the comments below.

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