Voodoo

Voodoo, a religious practice centered around the power of nature and spirits of the dead, originated in Africa in the 1700s. It is believed that the practices were brought to New Orleans when the African slaves arrived in the city during this time. Tales are told of the slaves using these religious practices against their masters (Taylor, 2000). 

So what is voodoo?

In order to understand voodoo, one must understand that the main belief surrounding the practice is that the human world is shared with the spiritual world. Therefore, the spirit of the dead may impact the life of the living. A common misconception is that voodoo is used only negatively, to torment and bring upon doom to the living. New Orleans voodoo actually has a close relationship with Christianity and Catholicism, believing in God, Mary, and worshiping them accordingly during their voodoo chants, prayers, and practices. Voodoo itself is the religious belief, and their are voodoo practitioners. Hoodoo, however, is the practice of spell or curse casting, which is commonly done through the use of voodoo dolls (Voodoo, 2016). 

Watch this video to develop a better understanding of New Orleans Voodoo!

The queen of voodoo Marie Laveau, who's resting place is located in The St. Louis cemetery, is considered to be the one who expanded on the practice of voodoo. At one point, Marie was ran out of the city of New Orleans, given that they believed she was practicing witch craft. She later returned and married a priest, continuing her practice. She combined the Catholic religion and voodoo by centering the practice around the virgin Mary. 

Marie's home is believed to be haunted, but it is also believed that Marie's spirit returns once a year on St. Johns Eve (Taylor, 2000). 

Her home can be located at 739 Bourbon St.

Other Voodoo Attractions to explore!

• New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum: 724 Dumaine St. New Orleans
• Marie Laveau's House of Voodoo: 739 Bourbon St. New Orleans
• Voodoo Spiritual Temple: 1428 N. Rampart St. 
  
  
  

Information provided by Morgan Skinner

References

Taylor, T. "Voodoo in New Orleans and the Legacy of Marie Laveua." Prairie Ghosts. Troy Taylor. 2000. Web. Accessed December 2016.
"Voodoo." ReligionFacts.com. 18 Nov. 2016. Web. Accessed December 2016.