WHO:            

Preservation Resource Center of New Orleans (PRC)

For 36 years, the PRC has been a major force in preserving New Orleans’ cherished architecture and neighborhoods.  Since Hurricane Katrina, the PRC has completed restoration projects valued at more than $10 million, including the completion of over 300 homes.

WHAT:          

35th Annual Holiday Home Tour –

This annual tradition kicks off on Friday, December 10, with a Patron Party in the beautiful home of Jennifer and Fred Heebe located at 5531 St. Charles Avenue.  Designed by New Orleans architect Emile Weil, this expansive mansion and its grounds are reminiscent of a French Louis XVI chateau.

The tour follows on Saturday and Sunday and will feature seven Garden District homes, including the home of the PRC’s board president, Mr. Hal Williamson, and Dr. Dale Le Blanc, at 1448 Fourth Street, pictured above.  This Italianate mansion known as “Colonel Short’s Villa” was designed by Henry Howard and built in 1859; a distinctive cast-iron cornstalk fence later ornamented its grounds.  At the time of its construction, no structure was larger or finer than this home in all of the Garden District.  The tremendous size, asymmetrical design, beautiful ironwork galleries and masterful workmanship throughout add to the magnificence of this beautiful structure. 

Another highlight on the tour...