Morrison Memorial

Was there ever a mayor of New Orleans quite like Chep Morrison? Here at the Morrison Memorial, we remember a man who shaped this city in ways still visible today. The memorial itself, a striking aluminum sculpture designed by Lin Emery in 1970, stands as a testament to Morrison’s enduring impact. Morrison served as mayor for an impressive sixteen years, from 1946 to 1961. This was a pivotal time for New Orleans. The city’s population peaked at over 627,000 in 1960. Morrison modernized city services and the vital Port of New Orleans. He also pushed for urban renewal projects and oversaw the construction of Interstate 10, forever changing the city’s landscape. Morrison even established a recreation department, showing his commitment to the well-being of New Orleanians. The Morrison Memorial, installed in the Civic Center in 1971, isn’t just a tribute to a mayor. It’s a symbol of a transformative era. Morrison’s vision extended beyond bricks and mortar. He fiercely opposed the powerful Long family, a political dynasty that held considerable sway in Louisiana. Governor Earl Long, a prominent figure in the Long machine, even mocked Morrison, derisively calling him “Dela-soups.” This clash of political titans added a dramatic flair to Louisiana’s political scene. Morrison also had his sights set on the governorship, but despite three attempts, he never achieved that ambition. His political journey, however, included time as the US Ambassador to the Organization of American States under President John F. Kennedy. Sadly, Morrison’s life was cut short in a plane crash in Mexico in 1964. But his legacy continues to resonate here at the Morrison Memorial and throughout the city he served so diligently. As you gaze upon this memorial, remember the man who, for better or worse, shaped modern New Orleans. His story is etched in the city’s streets, its buildings, and now, in this striking aluminum sculpture.