7-26-2024: Nomination of Lincoln Beach for Landmark Study

July 26, 2024 

Historic District Landmarks Commission 
1300 Perdido 
New Orleans, LA 

RE: Nomination of Lincoln Beach for Landmark Study 

Louisiana Landmarks Society would like to nominate Lincoln Beach for landmark study. In light of its recent listing on the National Register, we believe local landmarks status should be considered. 

Lincoln Beach holds local significance contributing to New Orleans' public recreation history from 1941 to 1965. It represented African American culture during the Jim Crow era, providing rare recreational space for African American residents. The beach offered swimming lessons, addressing high drowning rates, and hosted renowned African American musicians and cultural events. It served as a safe haven from public harassment. 

Opened in 1941 after community advocacy, Lincoln Beach expanded in 1954 with new amenities. It closed in 1965 following desegregation and hurricane damage. Lincoln Beach remains a powerful symbol of African American resilience and community during segregation, with enduring importance in local memory and culture. Its history reflects the broader struggle for equality and the development of African American cultural spaces in the face of institutionalized racism. 

The 27-acre waterfront park in New Orleans East, situated along Lake Pontchartrain's south shore, has lost some architectural elements due to natural disasters and demolition. However, the site retains significant historic integrity in location, setting, feeling, and association. Remaining structures maintain integrity in location, association, material, design, and workmanship. 

Currently, ongoing preservation efforts by local groups and city plans for restoration and public access highlight its potential reuse as a recreational area and for educating visitors about the site's historic significance. 

 Please consider studying Lincoln Beach for landmark status. We thank you for the consideration of this matter. 

Sincerely yours, 

Sandra L. Stokes 
Chair of Advocacy