The Old Ursuline Convent
The Old Ursuline Convent is located on Chartres Street in New Orleans, Louisiana. The construction of the building was completed in 1752, but in no way does this structure appear its age. The convent has also survived fires that destroyed most of the surrounding area in 1788 and 1794. It has also survived several hurricanes and a local French rebellion against Spanish rule in 1768. Throughout the often rough history of New Orleans, the sisters of the Ursuline Convent have been there for the people to offer a helping hand. They cared for the sick during the cholera and yellow fever epidemics, and treated those who were wounded during the Civil War and the War of 1812.
Currently, the convent is a museum that is combined with St. Mary’s Church. The stairs are now closed to visitors, but the ghosts of nuns have been seen walking between the first and second floors performing their everyday tasks. The apparitions appear to be dressed in dark habits with rosaries tied around their waists. Others have also felt the presence of the nuns amongst the nine rooms of the first floor as they care for the sick. Ghosts have even been spotted in the upper floors. Amidst the gardens, people have seen the apparition of a tall man in a blue uniform.
