Recalling its origins as a restaurant is key. The Longue Vue stands before us. It is more than just a building. It is a testament to love, family, and community. Edith Rosenwald and Edgar Stern named this estate Longue Vue. They named it after the restaurant where they got engaged. It was a sentimental choice. This choice would shape their life here.
Edith and Edgar’s story began in New York City in 1920. Despite coming from different backgrounds they shared a sense of philanthropy. Their romance blossomed quickly. They married seven months later. Edgar wanted to live in his hometown New Orleans. Edith wanted more land for gardening. They found the perfect spot on Garden Lane. Here they built their home and started their family.
The Sterns had three children. Edgar Jr. Audrey and Philip. Family photos capture their happy life here. The staff was also considered part of the family. In 1935, they met landscape architect Ellen Biddle Shipman. This meeting led to a true friendship. Shipman designed a full site plan. It included the Goldfish Overlook and the Pan Garden. She designed also the Kitchen Garden and the Camellia Allée.
In 1936, the Sterns took a 14-month trip to Europe. It was in honor of Edgar’s 50th birthday. It was also their 15th wedding anniversary. They also wanted to see Europe before the expected conflict. The Sterns returned inspired to create a home worthy of all they had learned. They wanted a home that reflected beauty and history.
Together with architects William and Geoffrey Platt, Shipman and the Sterns redesigned Longue Vue. They integrated the house and gardens. In 1939, they moved Longue Vue I. This began a multi-year project. Longue Vue II was created. The Sterns moved in on Thanksgiving 1942. The new house and gardens were designed together. Every public room opened to the gardens.
Longue Vue became a center for gatherings. It hosted political meetings and recitals. It hosted also fundraising sales for garden clubs and schools. In 1968, Edith opened the garden to the public. This fulfilled their intent for the home. The home was conceived in the 1930s to be given to the city. Edith explored museums for inspiration. In 1978, she moved out. The house then converted into a museum. In January 1980, Longue Vue House and Gardens opened its doors.
Today Longue Vue fulfills Edith and Edgar’s vision. It is an open and welcoming home for everyone. Longue Vue provides programming that promotes health, wellness, equity, creativity, and lifelong learning. They offer after-school garden education for students. They provide yoga classes and gardening opportunities for adults. Also, outdoor concerts and floral workshops are on offer for guests of all ages.
Longue Vue is more than just a house and garden. It is a love story that continues to inspire. It reflects the legacy of a remarkable couple. Their dream of community thrives here today.