House of Dance & Feathers Museum in New Orleans, LA

This remarkable museum, dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich culture and traditions of New Orleans, has become a beacon of resilience and strength in the city. Operated by Mr. Ronald W. Lewis, a native of the area, the museum has been devotedly created over years to encompass the unique spirit of the city, its famed Mardi Gras Indians, Skull and Bone gangs, and the vibrant Social Aid, and Pleasure clubs. If you are a culture and history enthusiast, then House of Dance and Feathers, this house-turned-museum, is a place you do not want to miss.

Embarking on its inspiring journey in 2003, the House of Dance and Feathers Museum had to be rebuilt following its devastation during Hurricane Katrina in 2005. Today, it stands as a testament of survival and the indomitable spirit of New Orleans, offering living history lessons on the resilience of its communities. The museum holds a collection of photographs, costumes, and artifacts that Mr. Lewis has sourced over the years from neighborhood families, enriching its insider view into the authentic culture of the area.

Diverse facets of the region’s culture unfurl as visitors navigate the museum's corners; the colorful, intricate attire and regalia of the Mardi Gras Indians, which are hand-sewn by members of the tribe throughout the year. The fascinating ritual of Skull and Bone gangs that roam on Mardi Gras day morning for the sake of waking up the city, wearing skeletal costumes and carrying symbolic bones is elaborated via artifacts and Lewis’s engaging narratives. Equally engaging are artifacts and info of Social Aid & Pleasure Clubs, organizations known for their community service work and for hosting traditional second-line parades. Each element is a piece of the city’s cultural jigsaw and helps visitors understand New Orleans in its most raw and real form.

Visitors to the House of Dance and Feathers will also appreciate the opportunity to meet and interact with Ronald W. Lewis. The charismatic curator's wealth of knowledge and firsthand experience not only brings the exhibits to life but paints a vivid picture of the cultural landscape of New Orleans ranging from its parades, music, and dance to its undeniable personal resilience. His narratives provide an in-depth look at the cultural fabric of his beloved city, a perspective rarely seen by visitors and even some locals.

The House of Dance and Feathers Museum is a true embodiment of New Orleans.
Rich in culture, vibrant in colors, unstoppable in spirit, it curates an experience that is memorable for its authenticity, making it a must-visit for those who seek to understand the core of this city's essence. Here, you're not just a visitor, but part of an ongoing story – the resilient spirit of New Orleans. This small but mighty museum is a unique opportunity to step beyond the tourist trails and immerse yourself in the heart of 'The Big Easy'. Its cultural richness, community stories, and personal narrations are powerful reminders of the strength and spirit that is distinctly New Orleans.