The Gallier Family story begins with James Gallier, Sr. Born in Ireland, he studied architectural drawing there before moving to England. He married his wife Elizabeth in England and had son, James, Jr. The family subsequently moved to New York where he worked in architecture. After two years, he set off for New Orleans and became the leading Greek revival architect in New Orleans, designing many important buildings including Gallier Hall (the former City Hall) and St. Patrick’s Church.
James Gallier, Jr. took over his father’s business in 1849 when his father’s health deteriorated. He later married Josephine Aglaé Villavaso and they had four daughters, Elizabeth Leonie, Josephine Blanche, Francoise Josephine and Jeanne Clemence. All were called by their middle names.
Painting of Aglaé Gallier
The family lived in various residences on Royal Street until James, Jr. built Gallier House as their residence. While building his own home, Gallier was engaged in the design and construction of the structure for which he is most famous, the French Opera House, which sadly burned in 1919. James Gallier, Jr. died in 1868.
Of the daughters, Josephine was the only one to marry. Leonie, Blanche and Clemence continued to live in Gallier House until it was sold in 1917.