About
Proud stewards of New Orleans and Gulf South history, we are a museum, research center, and publisher in the heart of the French Quarter.
Our History
Who We Are
Established in 1966, HNOC builds on the collection and vision of our founders, Kemper and Leila Williams. We produce award-winning exhibitions, public programs, and books and multimedia. In keeping with our founders’ wish to make New Orleans and Gulf South history accessible to the public, admission is free. Researchers and history lovers can explore our million-plus holdings onsite, for free, at the Williams Research Center (WRC).
About
Our Historic Properties
The 14 French Quarter buildings under our care are important parts of our collection. Each one has a story of its own.
About
Meet Our Founders
Kemper and Leila Williams moved to the French Quarter in 1946 with a mission to preserve its architectural splendor.
Our Campus
520 Royal Street
Visit the Museum
See rotating and permanent exhibitions, explore the historic Brulatour Courtyard, and stop by our award-winning shop.
410 Chartres Street
Visit the Williams Research Center
Explore centuries of Gulf South culture with unparalleled access to rare documents, art, and historic treasures. Stop in or browse our online catalog.
533 Royal Street
Preserving our Flagship Location
In 2023, we closed our historic Merieult House and adjacent properties to the public. Now comes a years-long effort to preserve and reenvision this part of our campus.
Research
Our Buildings
HNOC’s 14 historic buildings, spread over three blocks of the French Quarter, are foundational parts of our collection. Explore illustrated timelines of their architectural histories here.
News & Press
“In the French Quarter, the city’s colonial heart, gimmicky ghost tours are as common as cockroaches. A better way to commune with the spirits is to visit the Historic New Orleans Collection’s museum on Royal Street.”
Richard Fausset, correspondent, The New York Times
HNOC in the News
NOLA Now: HNOC Offers Curator Camp for Museum-Loving Teens
April 16, 2026
Happening June 8–12, 2026, the summer program brings history, art, and museums to life for local teens.
Announcement
HNOC Announces Winners of 2026 Student Writing Contest
April 15, 2026
This year’s contest challenged students to address important civil rights issues facing America today and in the future, inspired by the HNOC exhibition “The Trail They Blazed.”
HNOC in the News
NOLA.com: See a 360-Degree View of the American Revolution at this New French Quarter Exhibit
April 14, 2026
Contributing writer Dave Walker asked HNOC’s chief curator about what visitors can look foward to in the new interactive exhibition.
Announcement
HNOC Commemorates America’s 250th Anniversary with 2026 Programs
March 27, 2026
From concerts to panel discussions, the Collection joins organizations across the country in marking the anniversary.
HNOC in the News
Country Roads Magazine: Time Travel on Royal Street
March 24, 2026
Read an exclusive preview of HNOC’s new exhibition, “American Revolution: The Augmented Exhibition,” on view until January 17, 2027.
HNOC in the News
NOLA.com: A Place That Embodies What America Is About
March 23, 2026
In a guest column for NOLA.com | “The Times Picayune,” HNOC President and CEO Daniel Hammer invites readers to view 250 years of American history through a local lens.
HNOC in the News
Louisiana Landmarks Society Honors HNOC’s Renovation of Former K-Paul’s Restaurant
March 21, 2026
The Collection’s 416 Chartres Street project received a 2026 Award for Excellence in Historic Preservation.
Announcement
New Orleans Jazz Museum to Screen Award-Winning Documentary Made with HNOC Support
March 17, 2026
“What We Can Know About Edmond and Basile” was named 2026 Humanity Documentary of the Year by the Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities.
Announcement
HNOC, LHA select “Pinchback: America’s First Black Governor” for 2025 Williams Prize
March 11, 2026
Author Nicholas Patler sheds new light on the life of an influential leader in Reconstruction-era Louisiana.
HNOC in the News
Gambit: Musical Louisiana Concert Highlights Works of Underrecognized Creole Composers
March 2, 2026
Get an in-depth preview of HNOC’s upcoming “Echoes of Innovation” concert (March 4), with commentary from museum staff and community partners.
Announcement
Stories Behind the Sounds: Celebrate Music History at French Quarter Fest
February 26, 2026
Join HNOC for three days of hot music, cool indoor spaces, and legendary musical experiences that are free to the public.
HNOC in the News
WWNO: “It’s New Orleans: Out To Lunch” Hosts HNOC President & CEO
February 9, 2026
The popular podcast host Peter Ricchiuti dined with HNOC’s Daniel Hammer to discuss the role of museums in chronicling historical memory.
Get in Touch
Contact Us
Use the form to the right to contact us for more information about the Historic New Orleans Collection, or call us at (504) 523-4662.
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