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impressive Greek Revival building was the inspiration
of James Gallier Sr. Erected between 1845 and 1853,
it served as City Hall for just over a century.
After the completion of the building's basement,
the city ran out of money to fund the project, and
construction was delayed. A roof was placed over
the finished basement, and the police department
occupied it until money was raised for its completion.
It took 2 years to finish, and on May 10, 1853,
it was dedicated. The building measures 90 feet
in width and 215 feet in depth, and stands 3 stories
high. It is constructed of Tuckahoe marble and features
two impressive rows of fluted Ionic columns. The
building has been the site of many inportant events
in New Orleans' history, especially during the Reconstruction
and Huey Long eras. Several important figures in
Louisiana history lay in state in Gallier Hall,
including Jefferson Davis and General Beauregard.
Of late, it was local legend Ernie K-Doe who was
so honored. More than 5,000 mourners came to Gallier
Hall on July 14, 2001, to pay their respects to
the flamboyant R&B musician, who was laid out
in a white costume and a silver crown and scepter
and delivered to his final resting place in the
company of a big, brassy jazz procession.
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