The stated purpose of the Faubourg Marigny Improvement Association was first outlined in the 1972 articles of incorporation for this nonprofit organization.

The objects and purposes of this organization are declared to be as follows: "To protect, maintain and support Faubourg Marigny in the City of New Orleans and particularly that portion of it lying between the Mississippi River and St. Claude Avenue and between Esplanade Avenue and Press Street, including all buildings, improvements and properties adjoining said avenues, and situated in the areas immediately adjacent to same; to promote the physical, cultural, architectural and historical values of said section, and to secure adequate enforcement of all laws of the City of New Orleans and the State of Louisiana affecting or pertaining to it. "

When a large out-of-scale building went up next to Washington Square, residents realized that unless steps were quickly taken this intact nineteenth century neighborhood would be destroyed. Vital to the preservation effort was rezoning the neighborhood to protect the built environment and prevent new construction of out of scale or otherwise inappropriate buildings. In 1974 Historic Marigny Zoning (HMZ) was put in place in the triangle area (between Esplanade and Elysian Fields). HMZ for the remainder of the Marigny (Elysian Fields to Press Street) followed several years later.

The FMIA continued its efforts to protect the built environment by having the Faubourg Marigny put on the Historic Registers of the city, the state and the federal government. Members worked with the local Historic District Landmark Commission (HDLC) to cite those persons who would allow their property to fall into such a state of disrepair that demolition might have to be considered. Workshops were organized to teach residents how to protect and repair their homes, and how to take advantage of tax credits.

The Marigny became better protected through zoning and historic register rules allowing members to turn their attention to other aspects of preservation. Some focused on cleaning up the neighborhood, and yearly intensive cleanups were organized. Members became concerned about crime and Neighborhood Watch was instituted. At one time a Marigny Security Patrol was put in place.

Annual FMIA home tours began in 1974 and have been held each year since — from six to eight homes are on the tour each year. The FMIA sponsors Christmas Caroling in Washington Square each December, and this event has developed its own following. (Pictured left is Rosalind and Dave, Mo'lasses and the late Tuba fats joined Marigny elves in leading the caroling in te park a few year ago. This yearly event brings out hundreds of people from all over the city. Click picture to enlarge)

FMIA board members hear zoning issues, help residents through the maze of city regulations for all sorts of issues, mediate disputes and peruse the official city journal to alert residents to anything that might impact the neighborhood. Potluck suppers are held for the general membership each month as a way to bring neighbors together, and to share information that may affect residents. A monthly newsletter brings members written documentation of what happens at the Board meetings (which are open to the public) as well as topics of particular interest to Marigny residents.

The Faubourg Marigny Improvement Association is only as strong as the efforts of the many volunteers who have given selflessly of their time over the past thirty-three years. Fortunately, there has always been a new group of people willing to work to keep the Association going. Resident members fall in love with the area’s architecture, history, and people. They give their time and talents to preserve history and an urban lifestyle in this downtown neighborhood.

New members are welcome. Please come to one of the Monday meetings (the third Monday of each month) to meet your neighbors and see how you too can help preserve this lovely part of New Orleans.

Contributed by Dean Reynolds