Beauregard-Keyes House | New Orleans

The Beauregard-Keyes House, located in the French Quarter of New Orleans, is a historic landmark that offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past. This beautifully preserved 19th-century home is named after two notable figures in Louisiana history: Pierre Gustave Toutant Beauregard, a Confederate general during the American Civil War, and Kirkwood Keyes, a prominent 19th-century businessman and philanthropist. The house not only reflects the history of its famous occupants but also represents the architectural beauty and cultural richness of New Orleans.

History of the Beauregard-Keyes House

The Beauregard-Keyes House was originally built in 1826 for a wealthy New Orleans merchant, Joseph LeCarpentier. Designed in the Creole colonial style, the house was intended to reflect the elegance and affluence of New Orleans’ upper class. The home features a distinctive combination of French and Spanish Colonial architectural influences, which is typical of many buildings in the French Quarter.

1. Pierre Gustave Toutant Beauregard

General Pierre Gustave Toutant Beauregard, a key Confederate general during the American Civil War, is the most famous occupant of the Beauregard-Keyes House. Beauregard, born in Louisiana to a wealthy Creole family, was a West Point graduate and became one of the most prominent military leaders of the Confederacy. He is best known for his role in the First Battle of Bull Run, where he led the Confederate forces to victory, as well as for his command during the siege of Petersburg and the defense of Charleston.

Beauregard purchased the house in 1866, a few years after the Civil War, and lived there with his family. After the war, Beauregard became involved in railroad and business ventures and remained active in the political life of Louisiana. Despite his war-time prominence, his life after the Civil War was marked by a degree of obscurity, as he struggled to navigate post-war Southern politics.

2. Kirkwood Keyes

The house was later occupied by Kirkwood Keyes, a wealthy businessman and philanthropist in the late 19th century. Keyes was an advocate for education and was deeply involved in civic affairs, including support for various New Orleans institutions. Under his ownership, the house continued to serve as a center for social and political gatherings in the city.

Architecture and Design

The Beauregard-Keyes House is a prime example of Creole colonial architecture, combining elements of both Spanish and French Colonial styles. The structure was built with brick, and the façade features wrought-iron balconies and shutters-typical of the period and the region.

Key architectural features include:

Exquisite Woodwork: The interior of the house showcases stunning examples of carved woodwork, including elaborate mantels, crown moldings, and doors that are crafted from local woods.

Courtyard Garden: One of the most charming features of the Beauregard-Keyes House is its serene courtyard garden, which provides a quiet retreat from the bustling streets of the French Quarter. The garden, once an essential part of Creole architecture, is a lush space filled with tropical plants, fountains, and historical statues.

High Ceilings and Large Windows: Inside, the rooms feature high ceilings and large windows, which are characteristic of Creole homes and designed to promote ventilation in New Orleans’ hot and humid climate.

The house was designed to reflect the wealth and status of its early owners, and it has been meticulously preserved to maintain its historical charm.

The Museum

Today, the Beauregard-Keyes House operates as a museum that offers visitors a chance to explore the lives of its former residents and the history of New Orleans. The museum is open for tours, and its exhibits focus on two main areas:

1. Pierre Gustave Toutant Beauregard’s Life and Legacy

The museum provides extensive information about Beauregard’s life, focusing on his role as a Confederate general and his impact on Louisiana history. Visitors can see personal items, including letters, military memorabilia, and portraits of Beauregard, offering insight into his career and personal life. The museum also touches on the complex legacy of Beauregard, a figure who remains controversial due to his involvement in the Confederate cause and the ongoing debates about Confederate monuments and their place in American history.

2. The Architecture and History of the House

The museum also highlights the architectural features of the house, explaining the significance of its Creole colonial style and its role as a representation of New Orleans’ elite society during the 19th century. The museum’s curators provide a historical context for the house’s design and how it reflects the broader trends in New Orleans architecture at the time.

Exhibits explore the lives of the people who lived in the house, such as Joseph LeCarpentier, the original owner, and the later owners, Kirkwood Keyes and Beauregard. It also delves into the cultural and social life of the French Quarter, showcasing the role of the home as a gathering place for prominent figures of the era.

3. The Role of New Orleans in the Civil War

In addition to the Beauregard-related exhibits, the museum also covers New Orleans' role in the Civil War and its aftermath. This section of the museum discusses the Confederate occupation of New Orleans and the city’s significance during the war, including its strategic location along the Mississippi River. It provides historical context about the Union occupation and the changing political and social landscape of New Orleans after the war.

Special Programs and Events

The Beauregard-Keyes House hosts a variety of special programs and events, including:

Lectures and Talks: The museum occasionally offers talks on topics related to the Civil War, New Orleans’ architecture, or the history of the French Quarter.

Educational Programs: The museum offers educational programs for students and adults, focusing on topics such as the history of Louisiana, the Civil War, and New Orleans architecture.

Seasonal Events: The house is also a venue for seasonal events, including holiday tours, garden tours, and special themed events that offer a unique look into the city’s history.

Conclusion

The Beauregard-Keyes House is an important historical site that offers visitors a chance to explore the rich cultural, architectural, and social history of New Orleans. Whether you’re interested in Louisiana’s Civil War history, the architecture of the French Quarter, or the legacies of Confederate generals like Beauregard, the museum provides a fascinating and comprehensive view of the city’s past. With its beautiful setting, knowledgeable guides, and rich history, the Beauregard-Keyes House is a must-see destination for history buffs and those interested in the cultural heritage of New Orleans.