Louisiana Voodoo

Voodoo is alive and well in New Orleans. It was brought to the French colony Louisiana through the slaves. From 1719 to 1731, the majority of African slaves came directly from West Africa, and they brought their cultural practices, language, and religious beliefs rooted in spirit and ancestor worship with them. The practice of making and wearing charms and amulets for protection, healing, or the harm of others was a key aspect to early Louisiana Voodoo. The ouanga, a charm used to poison an enemy, contained the poisonous roots of the figure maudit tree, combined with other elements such as bones, nails, roots, holy water, or crucifixes. The administrator of the ritual frequently evoked protection from Allah, the Christian God, and Jesus Christ. This openness of African belief allowed for the adoption of Catholic practices into Louisiana Voodoo.

Most noted for her achievements as voodoo Queen of New Orleans in the 1830’s was Marie Laveau (grave pictured here, but the St. Louis #1 Cemetery). Once the news of her powers spread, she successfully overthrew the other voodoo queens of New Orleans. She acted as an oracle, conducted private rituals behind her cottage on St. Ann Street of the New Orleans French Quarter, performed exorcisms, and offered sacrifices to spirits. Also a devout Catholic, Marie encouraged her followers to attend Catholic Mass. The influence of her Catholic beliefs further facilitated the adoption of Catholic practices into the Voodoo belief system. Today, she is remembered for her skill and compassion for the less fortunate, and her spirit is considered one of the central figures of Louisiana Voodoo.

Many still firmly believe that she can still grant blessings from the grave. The blessing will cost you an offering of zombie brand candles, flowers, food, or money. There is an urban legend which states if you mark her tomb with “XXX” using chalk or brick that she will grant a wish. There are different versions on how to practice this old ritual. Voodoo practitioners state that this practice has nothing to do with Voodoo beliefs. The Voodoo practitioners and historical preservationists strongly discourage marking the graves because it is disrespectful and causes damage to the grave.