My New Orleans blood

The bustling streets of New Orleans tell stories as rich and diverse as its architecture and cuisine. Founded in 1718 by the French, then ceded to Spain in the 1760s, before eventually becoming part of the United States in the early 19th century, New Orleans has always been a melting pot of cultures, languages, and traditions.

It is within this backdrop that the narrative of Norbert Soulié, (a retired engineer in France),  unfolds—a story of tenacity, family history, and a quest for identity that has its roots deeply entwined in the city’s past.

For decades, very little information about the intricate tapestry of families that contributed to the city’s development was available. Generations passed, and many stories remained untold, shrouded in the fog of time: the Cheval, Milhet, Fortier, Courcelle, Soulie, Dolliole, Rillieux, Latrobe, ....

However, Norbert Soulié’s journey began more than 30 year ago with a simple question: Who were my ancestors, and what was their connection to this city that has always felt like home? Norbert embarked on his mission with a fierce determination born out of curiosity and nostalgia. Over the course of 30 years, he became a diligent researcher, scouring archives, libraries, and genealogical resources not only in New Orleans but across France and even in Spain.

His patience was rewarded when he unearthed an astonishing trove of over 2,000 written documents. These included testaments, professional contracts, private correspondence, and even a treasured family photo album that offered glimpses into the lives of those who walked the streets of New Orleans long before him. And even a baptism certificate of Luciano Soulié, signed by father Sedella, during the Spanish period.

Among the most poignant of his discoveries was a collection of letters written by Bernard,  his great-great grandfather, when Spanish influence was fading and American culture began to seep into the social fabric of the city.

These letters revealed not only the personal anxieties of a family grappling with changing fortunes but also provided valuable context about the transformations taking place in New Orleans as it transitioned through different rule and influences.

Norbert learned that his ancestors had been merchants, real estate businessmen contributing to the economic vibrancy of the region and enriching its multicultural heritage. They were among the 2 or 3 richest families of New Orleans in 1860.

In Norbert’s research, he also found echoes of resilience and adaptability that characterized the lives of his forebears.  Norbert's ancestors, much like the city itself, adapted to changing circumstances—embracing new opportunities while holding fast to their cultural roots.

As Norbert painstakingly pieced together each part of this family puzzle, he became increasingly aware of how the personal stories of his ancestors reflected the broader history of New Orleans.

He documented the migrations, the marriages, the contract losses, in a "free people of color" context. Each document unveiled a layer of complexity that contributed to a deeper understanding of not just his family’s narrative but also the overarching narrative of the city—a city born from confluence and collaboration among diverse cultures.

One particularly striking find was a detailed contract between one of his ancestors and Becnel, a local plantation owner, which shed light on the economic relationships that existed during the early 19th century.

This document highlighted the often-overlooked dynamics of power, work, and community ties at a time when New Orleans was blossoming into a cultural and economic hub. It was a reminder that behind every stone building and festival was a history laden with both struggle and achievement.

In addition to hundreds of documents, Norbert’s discovery of a family photo album proved to be a window into the past. The sepia-toned photographs captured life in the late 19th century, with solemn family portraits.

Each image spoke volumes about the culture and traditions that his ancestors cherished. It was in these photographs that Norbert found faces that resembled his own, and he felt a profound connection to the smiles and emotions frozen in time.

These images became treasured artifacts, each telling a story of joy, sorrow, and the simple reality of everyday life in New Orleans. After years of meticulous research, Norbert Soulié finally compiled his findings, culminating in a detailed narrative of his ancestral history.

He drew parallels between the experiences of his family and the evolution of New Orleans—a city that flourished in a spirit of adaptability, creativity, and resilience. Norbert's account is not merely a genealogy; it is a testament to the enduring spirit of those who came before him.

In sharing his family’s story, he contributes to a larger historical narrative, giving voice to those who paved the way for future generations. Norbert’s work is an invitation to others: to reflect on their own heritage and acknowledge the voices that have intricately woven the fabric of their identities.

A Louisiana new Identity

As New Orleans continues to thrive, with its jazz, cuisine, and festivals celebrating its unique culture, the tales of its inhabitants—both past and present—remain vital to understanding the essence of the city.

Norbert Soulié’s journey stands as a testament to the importance of uncovering the past, recognizing that every family history is a part of a bigger story, one that shapes the identity of the present.

In a world where many feel disconnected from their roots, Norbert’s dedication to piecing together his ancestors’ stories serves as a reminder of the rich tapestry of lineage that connects us all.

With every document, letter, and photograph, and even a mahogany table belonging to his remote ancestor, he has not only rediscovered his ancestry link, but has breathed life into the history of New Orleans; a city that has transformed, yet, in many ways, remains influenced by the echoes of its past.

Through his diligent pursuit, Norbert Soulié has illuminated the path of his family, uncovering a legacy that is undoubtedly more than just a memory—it is a living connection to New Orleans,  a vibrant city and a reminder of the stories that define who we are.

Leon Courcelle,  January 2024