In the late 19th century, the Market was given its modern day, bizarre-like structure, designed by Joseph Abeilard, one of America's first African American Architects. Over the next three centuries, immigrants from Europe, Africa and the Caribbean began to open their own venues at this French Quarter market, offering everything from Italian butcheries to African coffee and Choctaw spices. From there it continued to evolve into a cultural and commercial hub for New Orleans, as French and Spanish colonists opened the market up to ships and traders from all over the world.
In 1791, the French Market originated as a Native American trading post along the Mississippi River. From Cafe du Monde near Jackson Square to the flea market at the end of Esplanade Avenue, the French Market includes five blocks of local produce, specialty art, handmade crafts, retail shopping and more. Similar to some European markets, this historically charming open-air market features shopping, dining, music and local tradition that is uniquely New Orleans.
