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If you’re a fan of “American Horror Story,” you likely saw the Buckner Mansion in seasons three and eight. Supposedly, the restless spirit of Miss Josephine, a slave for the Buckner family, haunts this stunning mansion. It’s also one of the most photographed locations in New Orleans. So, if you’re heading to the Big Easy, here are a few things to know about the Buckner Mansion!
Who Was Henry Sullivan Buckner?
Henry Sullivan Buckner built his mansion in 1856. He was a cotton kingpin who wanted to display his wealth. He desired a grander, more opulent residence than the other cotton barons of the South, especially his ex-business partner Frederick Stanton. Thus, architect Lewis E. Reynolds designed the 20,000-square-foot Buckner Mansion.
Pro Tip: Check out these Soul Food Spots You Have To Check Out When Visiting New Orleans.
What Is the Buckner Mansion?
You can’t walk past the Buckner Mansion without staring. The two-story portico, 40+ columns, and galleries are show-stoppers. At completion, the Buckner Mansion had 35 rooms, including three ballrooms. A garden surrounded the residence. The mansion is a beautiful example of Greek Revival architecture.
Where Is the Buckner Mansion?
The Buckner Mansion sits on the corner of Coliseum and Jackson Avenue at 1410 Jackson Avenue in New Orleans. It’s part of the city’s historic Garden District, which is known for its oak-lined streets, inspiring architecture, and majestic mansions. The St. Charles Avenue streetcar, the oldest continuously operating streetcar line in the world, stops at nearby Josephine and First Streets.
What Is the Garden District In New Orleans Known For?
If you’ve never been to New Orleans, we highly suggest visiting the Garden District. It became a residential area in the 1840s and maintains its historic charm. You’ll find opulent mansions like the Buckner Mansion here, as it’s the fanciest part of New Orleans. English-speaking Americans who arrived in the 1800s wanted to distance themselves from the French and Creole natives.
The Garden District is also the prettiest part of New Orleans. The majestic oaks are stunning and create a magical “garden” atmosphere. This location is popular for Hollywood film crews and is home to celebrities, athletes, and writers.
Is the Buckner Mansion Haunted?
Henry Sullivan Buckner was a slave owner. It’s rumored that the Buckner Mansion is haunted by the restless spirit of Miss Josephine, a former slave who remained with the family even after the Civil War.
Some people have reported hearing sweeping sounds and smelling the scent of lemon during their visits to the Buckner Mansion, alluding to the idea that Miss Josephine’s restless spirit still wanders the property. Other visitors claim to have seen chandeliers swinging, lights turning off and on, doors opening and closing, and other unexplained phenomena.
Is the Buckner Mansion Open To the Public?
Because of the Buckner Mansion’s appearance on “American Horror Story” and its grand style, it’s one of the most famous places to visit in the Garden District. Not to mention how many paranormal activity enthusiasts want to experience the alleged hauntings here.
Although you can walk past the residence, you cannot go inside. Several walking tours take tourists through the Garden District and include a stop at the Buckner Mansion.
Are There Other Haunted Places In New Orleans?
The Buckner Mansion isn’t the only haunted place in New Orleans. If you’re looking for a scare or just want to hear a good story, there are numerous hotels, bars, and residences with historical tales of ghosts and paranormal activity.
The notorious Madame Delphine de Lalaurie was known to torture slaves. Even though she was run out of New Orleans, her former residence, the Lalaurie Mansion, is said to be haunted by ghosts. Then there’s the Manchac Swamp, where Voodoo priestess Julie White is said to haunt regularly, and the oldest cemetery in New Orleans, at St. Louis Cemetery No. 1.
If you’re looking for a place to visit during Halloween or just want to dive into the history and lore of the Big Easy, this Bayou city is an ideal location.
Venture To the Buckner Mansion In New Orleans On Your Next Trip To the Big Easy!
The Buckner family lived in their mansion until 1923. They sold the residence to the Soule Business School, which operated until 1983. This school was one of the best business schools in the South. Robert Maestri, former mayor of New Orleans; J. Emile Verret, former lieutenant governor of Louisiana; and Hugh L. White, former governor of Mississippi, are just a few notable alumni.
After the school’s closing in 1983, the Buckner Mansion became a private residence again. This is why it’s not open to public tours. However, it’s available for rent if you can fork out some serious cash. We found reports of rates up to $4,700/night!
But for the rest of us who just want to enjoy a beautiful masterpiece of architecture and scenic beauty, a stroll through the Garden District will suffice. Who knows? Will you smell Miss Josephine’s favorite lemon scent or hear the swooshing sound of a broom against the mansion’s floors?
