Gentilly

Gentilly is a neighborhood located in the eastern part of New Orleans, LA. It is bounded by Lake Pontchartrain to the north, the Industrial Canal to the east, Bayou St. John to the west, and the London Avenue Canal to the south. The neighborhood is known for its tree-lined streets, historic homes, and diverse community.

Gentilly was originally settled by French and Spanish colonists in the 18th century. The area was named after the French city of Gentilly, which was the birthplace of Jean-Baptiste Le Moyne de Bienville, the founder of New Orleans. In the early 20th century, Gentilly became a popular residential area for middle-class families, and many of the homes built during this time still stand today.

One of the most notable landmarks in Gentilly is Dillard University, a historically black university that was founded in 1930. The university is known for its strong academic programs and has produced many notable alumni, including former New Orleans mayor Marc Morial and Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Leonard Pitts Jr.

Another popular attraction in Gentilly is the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, which takes place annually at the Fair Grounds Race Course. The festival is one of the largest music and cultural events in the United States and features performances by local and national musicians, as well as food vendors and arts and crafts booths.

Gentilly was heavily impacted by Hurricane Katrina in 2005, with many homes and businesses suffering extensive damage. In the years since the storm, the neighborhood has undergone significant redevelopment, with new housing and commercial developments being built. However, many residents are still struggling to rebuild and recover from the storm's aftermath.

Despite the challenges it has faced, Gentilly remains a vibrant and resilient community. Its residents are proud of their neighborhood's history and culture, and are committed to preserving its unique character for future generations. With its beautiful homes, rich cultural heritage, and strong sense of community, Gentilly is truly one of the gems of New Orleans. Like the Gentilly neighborhood the Lakeview neighborhood is also a fantastic neighborhood.