Parties in the French Quarter create worlds of their own — and when one is at the Historic BK House & Gardens, the celebration is an ideal setting for partygoers dedicated to the preservation of this beloved property, ensuring it continues to educate and bring joy to others.
On Oct. 5, the annual Soirée in the Vieux Carré benefit gathered these fans, who not only enjoyed the historic house and gardens, but also partook of cuisine from Messina’s, cocktails and entertainment from James Andrews & The Crescent City Allstars, as well as piano prodigy and vocalist River Eckert.
This year’s benefit marks the 100th anniversary from when the house was almost torn down. Built in 1826 as a raised center hall Creole cottage featuring Greek Revival elements, it had fallen into disrepair and scheduled for demolition, with the property slated to become the site of a macaroni factory. But with the help of philanthropic women and Gen. Allison Owen, a military leader and architect based in New Orleans, they saved the house.
This fundraiser is among the ones throughout the year that helps with the complex’s upkeep, which includes day-to-day maintenance and renovations.
Event co-chairs were Rayne and Robert Bories, Elizabeth Brown Soslow and Tim Soslow.
Fun Fact: BK House & Gardens is celebrating its 200th anniversary in 2026.
