Little did Julien Poydras know (though, who knows, perhaps he did!) that his philanthropy would still be affecting New Orleans more than 200 years later, with one example being the Poydras Home.
Founded in 1817 by Mrs. Phoebe Hunter for the female children of widows left destitute from yellow fever, the Poydras Female Orphan Society was named in honor of Poydras, who supported the organization early on by donating a home on St. Charles Avenue and Julia Street as well as some money. Eventually, the society moved to its current location on Magazine Street in 1857, evolving from caring to children to the elderly.
To honor this legacy, Poydras Home hosted its inaugural Julien’s Jubilee benefit on Oct. 23, held in the historic 1857 hall.
Partygoers kicked off the event with a specialty cocktail, the Poydras Pear Cosmo, created by Poydras Home Vice President of Hospitality and Executive Chef Dave Wright, who also produced the night’s menu. Music was provided by the Bucktown All-Stars.
Poydras Home CEO Erin Kolb and Board of Trustee President Claire Porter served as honorary co-chairs.
Fun Fact: The party was a family affair, with residents — some of whom are siblings — enjoying the festivities, as well as their children, nieces, nephews and grandchildren.
