Historical Homes
Located in the Garden District of New Orleans, is the Morris-Israel House. Construction on the home began in 1860 for Joseph C Morris, a shipping rope merchant and bank president. The construction was greatly delayed for 9 years due to the Civil War. By 1869, the grand side-hall town house had finally been completed and was quite luxurious for the time.
Known as one of the best examples of Italianate architecture in the city, it boasts detailed cast iron work and galleries, slender cast iron columns decorated with arched spandrels that have been described as “iron lace,” and arched doors and windows modeled after Italian villas. The 7,718 sq ft of interior living space was appointed with magnificent historic detailing, soaring 15 foot ceiling heights, a double parlor, formal dining room with painted fabric ceiling, exquisite ceiling medallions and moldings, black and white marble mantle pieces, hardwood flooring, and a seemingly infinite amount of historic charm.
Joseph Morris lived in the house with his family for over 50 years. After his death, the home passed through the ownership of numerous individuals and was solely used as a private residence.
In 1967 Merryl Israel Aron and her first husband, Samuel Israel purchased the home which was in great need of a make-over, so the Israel’s began a massive renovation. It was during this time, that a big surprise was awaiting the remodelers. As layers of history were peeled from the home, a shocking discovery was found – as a secret room was located.
Upon further inspection of the area, human bones were recovered, which had all been placed in a specific pattern under the floorboards. It is said that the precise positioning of these remains were in line with an ancient Voodoo ritual to petition spirits. Because of this discovery, the house has been nicknamed “the house of the voodoo ritual.”
In addition to this finding, the home is said to be haunted. Reports suggest that strange paranormal activity has been experienced, such as unexplainable light abnormalities and orbs have been seen and unknown disembodied voices and strange sounds have been heard. It is also said that this house is the inspiration for the Haunted Mansion at Disneyland.
The Israel’s lived in the house together for 30 years. After Samuel’s death, Merryl donated the mansion to Sam’s alma mater, Tulane University, with an arrangement that she would spend the rest of her life in the home. She passed away in 2015 at the age of 102.
Eventhough the house was in the early stages of a renovation, it was sold in September 2020 for $3,300,000. Presumably, the new owners will complete the restoration and renovation of this grand home.
While I can neither confirm nor deny the stories that the house is haunted, I do know that this house was not the inspiration for Disney’s Haunted Mansion.
source:https://www.redfin.com/LA/New-Orleans/1331-1st-St-70130/home/85469086
https://exploringnolatours.com/blog/f/morris-israel-house
