Desire Area is a historically significant neighborhood in New Orleans’ Upper Ninth Ward, known for its complex past and cultural resilience.
The neighborhood’s name originates from Desire Street, which was likely named after Désirée Gautier Montrieul, the daughter of a local plantation owner. Over time, the French name “Désirée” was anglicized to “Desire,” lending its name to the area and famously to Tennessee Williams’ play A Streetcar Named Desire.
In the mid-20th century, the area became home to the Desire Housing Project, one of the largest public housing developments in the United States, constructed between 1952 and 1954. The project faced numerous challenges, including poor construction and isolation from the rest of the city, leading to deteriorating living conditions. By the 1970s, the Desire Projects had become emblematic of urban poverty and neglect.
Despite these hardships, the community fostered a strong sense of identity and activism. Notably, in 1970, the Black Panther Party established a chapter in the Desire Projects, initiating community programs and facing significant confrontations with law enforcement.
In recent years, efforts have been made to revitalize the area. The former housing projects have been replaced with mixed-income developments, and the community continues to work towards overcoming environmental and economic challenges.
Visitors to the Desire Area can explore its rich history and witness the ongoing transformation of a neighborhood that embodies both the struggles and the enduring spirit of New Orleans.