New Orleans Red Light District

The New Orleans Red Light District, known as Storyville, was a designated area established from 1897 to 1917 where legal prostitution and nightlife thrived under regulated conditions. Located near the French Quarter, it featured clubs, bars, and brothels, contributing to the city's vibrant, albeit controversial, cultural history. The district operated under strict licensing laws, but also attracted illicit activities. Its existence influenced local music and culture, notably jazz, and played a significant role in shaping New Orleans’ reputation for lively entertainment. The district was closed in 1917 due to legal reforms but remains a notable chapter in the city’s historical fabric.