New Orleans Board of Trade
Gallery - Click an image to enlarge >>
> Click to enlarge
> Click to enlarge
> Click to enlarge
> Click to enlarge
> Click to enlarge
> Click to enlarge
> Click to enlarge
> Click to enlarge
> Click to enlarge
Company Description
The New Orleans Board Of Trade was founded in 1880, and trading continued on the floor until mid-1960. Centered on the eastern wall of the building are three clocks, which have been in place since the building was erected, giving the times in New Orleans, New York & Rio de Janeiro, which were the major players in the Green Coffee Trading.
The eight-sectioned mural done was hand-pained by local artist Alvin Sharpe in 1932. It took him approximately three months to complete. First, the canvas was glued to the dome, and then he painted them while on a scaffold in the prone position -- the local version of Michelangelo. (The cost for this project was only $5,500.00 -- just imagine what it would cost today!)
In 1993, the Board of Trade was once again renovated, the floors leveled and carpeted with a permanent dance floor installed. It is now available for special event rental, so the public has the opportunity to experience the grandeur of days gone by.
The Arcade
A remnant of the St. James Hotel built in 1859 and noted for its cast iron façade, the arcade now serves as the formal covered promenade to the main building and loggia to the forecourt known as The Plaza. Ornamented by iron gates, the arcade measures 22- feet wide by 59-feet and can accommodate up to seventy guests. Its Seating capacity for alfresco dining would be about forty persons. Canvas drop cloths are available to enclose the open arched side during inclement weather. The arcade is also used effectively as a serving stage to the plaza when in use.
The Plaza
Constructed in 1968 the former site of the original St. James Hotel, the Plaza offers a glimpse of the Board Of Trade building from Magazine Street. Designed by Koch & Wilson along the lines of small Parisian Parks, the open court is paved in pink flagstone with four raised planters arranged around a delightful fountain. One long planter spans the length of its east wall opposite the arcade with iron benches furnishing both areas. The Plaza can accommodate sixty persons seated or 250 at a standing cocktail reception. Crape myrtles and sweet olive tree enhance the area along the east wall and adds a delightful seasonal perfume.
The Patio and Ancillary Areas
Behind The main Building, a private patio with tables and chairs is available for use by guest as a smoking area, or to accommodate overflow. The Trading Room floor houses separate restrooms for men and women complete with fixtures for handicapped patrons.
New Orleans Board of Trade
316 Board of Trade Place
New Orleans
Louisiana
LA 70130
