April 8 at 6:00pm — 8:00pm
Join historian Gaynell Brady to explore the history and significance of Holt Cemetery. First founded in 1879 to provide relief to other cemeteries after the Yellow Fever epidemic in 1878, Holt Cemetery is now the final resting place of 1,400+ military veterans and many famous New Orleans residents including Buddy Bolden, Jessie Hill, and Robert Charles. Holt’s landscape reflects distinct burial traditions where below ground burials are marked with diverse grave markers from commercially produced headstones to hand-made markers and memorials. Brady will trace the history and genealogy of this important burial ground as well as share research information and techniques.
Gaynell Brady, a New Orleans–based family historian, interprets and researches Louisiana African American history. She earned degrees in History and Museum Studies from Southern University at New Orleans and contributed to the Louisiana State Museum, the National World War II Museum, and the National Park Service. As Owner/Educator of Our Mammy’s, Gaynell spearheads genealogy and history programs centered on research, storytelling, interpretation, and community memory. Her work empowers individuals to uncover family stories, navigate historical records, and connect personal genealogy to broader historical landscapes. When she is not working, she advocates for cemeteries and the preservation of historical sites.
Photo of Holt Cemetery courtesy of the Historic New Orleans Collection.
