The Monmorte Hotel is a historic Art Deco hotel located in the heart of the French Quarter. Named after Francois Monmorte, a wealthy French immigrant. It first opened its doors on June 15, 1913. It cost $2.5 million ($33 million in today's money or dollars) to complete this twelve-story building which more holds 300 rooms and suites. Four years after opening, a fire erupted on the eight floor and spread, causing severe damage to several floors and to the exterior of the building. Twenty three guests and staff were killed along with Nicholas and Madelaine Monmorte, the son and wife of Francois. For ten years it remained in a state of ruin, despite the attempts of many investors to purchase it. It was said that the owner, who had fallen into a great depression with the loss of his family, claimed it was all he had left of them. |  |
Rumors suggest that Francois lived in the charred skeleton of his beloved hotel until he was forced into a local sanitarium. Some say he died of Tuberculosis, others have stated that he killed himself in his room on the anniversary of the hotel's grand opening. It was only in his death that the property was released and auctioned to the highest bidder, Norman Fitgerald, who used his riches to restore the building to its former glory.
Unfortunately, with the doors opening to the public once again on June 15, 1929, the reports of strange and supernatural occurrences started to be recorded. Whispers heard in bathrooms, the sound of children playing in the hallways, apparitions of maids dusting in the rooms scared guests and alarmed the current staff.
The eight floor became famous for its hauntings, but the ghostly activity hardly stopped there. Some report the smell of smoke in the middle of the night, or the sound of creaking footsteps, swaying doors and curtains and images of people in mirrors who aren't ever in the room. It's rumored that even the Monmorte family occasionally make an appearance.
Feelings of dread and helplessness have caused some who stay to take their own life as well. Since it originally opened, there have been nearly fifty-seven deaths within its walls.
Currently, the Hotel Monmorte is owned by an anonymous benefactor. The first six floors have been dedicated to mortal guests, while the upper levels are dedicated strictly to the Kindred of the domain - those who wish to be housed within its sacred walls.
The Edison, which is located in the basement, is the private bar open to all supernatural creatures who dwell within New Orleans, as long as they respect the rules of Elysium.
