On a ride down Carrollton Avenue in New Orleans, you’re not likely to miss a pair of stately, stone lions. These mark the entrance to Pritchard Place, a subdivision of sorts that was developed in 1912. The street was named for local businessman R.O Pritchard and I suppose the lions were put in place to serve as landmark for the newly unveiled neighborhood. They also serve as a neat backdrop for a certain Puch moped.
Palmer Park (originally called Hamilton Square) was named through a city ordinance in July 1902. The name change honored the late Benjamin Morgan Palmer, pastor for the New Orleans First Presbyterian Church. His Thanksgiving sermon in 1860 was said to have influenced leading Louisiana to join the Confederate States of America. In 1912, the recognizable Palmer Park arch was built. Palmer Park Commission President T. M. Thompson and City Engineer Hardee designed the arch and it was funded at the cost of $1500. That seems to be today’s going price for a restored Puch Maxi!
The Nix Library opened in 1930 as the sixth branch of the New Orleans Public Library. It was made possible by a donation of land from brothers James, Ralph, and John Nix in memory of their parents. At the time, New Orleans City Council had appropriated $20,000 for the purchase of a lot in the area, but funding to construct the branch was not available. With the property donation, the money was then used to build the facility. The tall brick building is comprised of a single large room with high ceilings and large windows provide plenty of light. It has been a favorite of the neighborhood for generations. A renovation of the building was recently completed and the small traditional library still offers materials and programs for locals.
Clearly not the most irreverent thing I’ve done–but just could not resist the opportunity. Mater Dolorosa (Latin for “Mother of Sorrows”) Catholic Church is located on S. Carrollton Avenue in New Orleans. It’s founding dates back to 1848 and has quite an impressive history. I’ve attended many masses at the church–but this was the first visit for Puch.
This is a rather unassuming tribute to Samuel Loewenberg, Treasurer of Touro Synagogue in 1881. Seems he was one of the prominent leaders of the Jewish community in New Orleans in the mid-19th century. The structure, with a non-functioning horse trough and water fountain (now a planter with flowers), is located at the corner of St. Charles Avenue and S. Carrollton Avenue in New Orleans. Good thing my 2 horsepower Puch Maxi wasn’t thirsty.
Adventures on a Puch Maxi Moped 