Admission: 
$7.00 adults - $5.00 children

This massive three-story structure of stucco and brick was built in 1865 by the architect-builder Thomas Mulligan for the Sisters of the Daughters of Charity. It was originally constructed as a school, St. Joseph’s Institute, which relocated in l868.

In l870 it opened as St. Elizabeth’s Orphan Asylum, which was established in l854.

The original rectangular structure was enlarged in l880 by the addition of the Prytania Street wing--also three-story. The west wing (on the Perrier Street side), another three-story, was added in 1883 and also at that time a mansard roof was added to the original structure. These additions were all designed by architect Albert Diettel. As St. Elizabeth’s Orphan Asylum the home was also a refuge for unwed mothers in the late 1950’s. St. Elizabeth’s moved from this location in l989.

In 1993, the building was purchased by the Rice family as a private residence. Today the 55,000-sq.-ft. building is still used as a private residence. In addition, the green ballroom is used for fund-raisers, civic events and wedding receptions. The rooms are so massive and reek of so much history that one can practically see the generations of people still walking on the worn wooden stairs. The first floor has a glassed-in wooden porch which leads to a courtyard.

Anne Rice has her doll collection on display which encompasses dolls of all nations and types--the oldest is from 1800. This display is located on the second floor, as is the chapel which is referred to as the "hall of saints." Also, there is a huge dining room and "pumpkin head" is also on display.

Tours are held daily at 11:00 a.m., l:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m.

Proceeds of the tours are given to St. Alphonsus and St. Mary’s Churches.

- By Frances Vance