Backstreet Cultural Museum

Discover the rich culture of Mardi Gras and its traditions at this museum.

Sylvester Hawks Francis created the Backstreet Cultural Museum in 1999. With the help of his sister Elvera Douro and D Joan Rhoades, they created a showcase of the African American History of New Orleans. Guests can see the historical struggle of slavery and disenfranchisement of freedom to the triumph of rich cultural life unfold before their eyes. The museum is home to thousands of artifacts, costumes, memorabilia, photos, jazz music, films, and other historical information. The contents of the exhibits continue to expand each year, all while maintaining the traditional exhibits. The collections focus on film collections, Mardi Gras Indians, Skull and Bone Gangs, pleasure clubs, and more.

A collection of films directed by Sylvester Hawks Francis dating back to 1970 is on display. There are also recordings of jazz funerals and 30 years of celebrations from the Mardi Gras Indians. Mardi Gras is known for its elaborate costume designs, often featuring feathers and beads. Some of these costumes took over a year to create. The Skull and Bone Gangs area contain costumes and objects of processional traditions and their role in Mardi Gras. They serve to bless and scare away injury, sickness, and death and are seen wearing skeleton suits and walking on stilts during Mardi Gras. The Backstreet Cultural Museum often has community events, programs, and festivities. You can come here and take guided tours, which are available from 10 am to 4 pm Tuesday through Saturday.