Hermann-Grima House | New Orleans

The Hermann-Grima House is a historic Creole townhouse located in the French Quarter of New Orleans, Louisiana.

This structure preserves the domestic life and architectural style of a wealthy New Orleans family in the 19th century.

Visual Characteristics

The house is a two-and-a-half-story structure constructed primarily of brick with stuccoed exterior walls. Its facade features a Creole gallery with wrought iron railings on the second floor. The roof is hipped and covered with standing seam metal. The exterior paint color is a pale yellow, with white trim around the windows and doors. The architectural style is Creole townhouse, characterized by its raised first floor, central passage, and formal parlors.

Location & Access Logistics

The Hermann-Grima House is situated at 820 St. Louis Street, New Orleans, LA 70112. It is located approximately 0.8 km (0.5 miles) northwest of Jackson Square. Street parking is available on St. Louis Street and surrounding streets, though it can be metered and limited. Public transportation options include the Canal Street streetcar line (approximately a 10-minute walk) and various bus routes that service the French Quarter.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The house was constructed between 1831 and 1832 for Samuel Hermann, a prosperous merchant. It was designed by an unknown architect. The original purpose was to serve as a private residence for the Hermann family. The house was later purchased by Felix Grima in 1844 and remained in the Grima family for several decades before being acquired by the Historic New Orleans Collection.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can tour the restored rooms of the house, which showcase period furnishings and artifacts. Demonstrations of 19th-century domestic skills, such as cooking in the Creole kitchen, are often conducted. Guided tours provide detailed information on the history of the house and its inhabitants. The house also features a courtyard garden.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available on-site for visitors. Limited shaded areas are present in the courtyard. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available within the house and courtyard. No on-site food vendors are present, but numerous restaurants and cafes are located within a short walking distance in the French Quarter.

Best Time to Visit

The best time of day for photography inside the house is during midday when natural light penetrates the rooms. For comfortable exploration, the months of October through May offer milder temperatures. The house is open year-round, and no specific tide requirements are applicable.

Facts & Legends

A notable feature of the Hermann-Grima House is its original Creole kitchen, which is one of the best-preserved examples in the city. It includes a large hearth, brick oven, and a variety of cooking implements from the period. The house is also known for its extensive collection of antique furniture and decorative arts.

Nearby Landmarks

• The Historic New Orleans Collection (0.1km West)
• St. Louis Cathedral (0.8km Southeast)
• Preservation Hall (0.6km Southwest)
• New Orleans Pharmacy Museum (0.4km Southwest)
• Jackson Square (0.8km Southeast)