New Orleans Honors Margaret Haughery, the “Angel of the Delta”

UPDATE: New Orleans is reflecting on the remarkable legacy of Margaret Haughery, known as the “Angel of the Delta,” as the city prepares to commemorate her life and contributions to the community. This urgent tribute arrives amid a growing recognition of her profound impact on the city’s vulnerable population, particularly orphans, during her lifetime.

Born in 1813 in Tully, Co Leitrim, Ireland, Haughery faced a harrowing journey to America that began in 1818. After a grueling six-month voyage, her family settled in Baltimore, only to face further tragedy with the deaths of her parents from yellow fever. At just nine years old, Haughery was left alone, navigating life’s challenges with resilience.

In New Orleans, she transformed her hardships into a mission. Following the death of her husband Charles and their child Frances, Haughery dedicated herself to supporting the city’s poorest residents. Despite being left penniless, she became a successful businesswoman, running a bakery and increasing her dairy herd to 50 cows. Her entrepreneurial spirit allowed her to fund orphanages in collaboration with the Sisters of Charity, serving children of all backgrounds.

As the Civil War erupted in 1861, Haughery’s commitment intensified. Facing the Union blockade, she opened a soup kitchen to feed the growing number of destitute families. In a remarkable act of bravery, she negotiated with General Butler, securing permission to deliver food across enemy lines.

Haughery’s charity work earned her the affection and respect of New Orleanians, who often regarded her as a saintly figure. Her death in 1882 was met with widespread mourning, making the front page of the Daily Picayune. The city arranged a state funeral, attended by prominent officials and community members, reflecting the deep love and respect for her legacy.

Following her passing, Haughery bequeathed her entire fortune to orphanages in New Orleans, with no restrictions on the children they served. A committee quickly raised $6,000 to erect a statue in her honor, a remarkable sum collected from small donations. The statue, located at Margaret Place, stands as a testament to her influence and generosity, marking it as one of the first statues in the U.S. honoring a woman.

Today, as the city honors her memory, the legacy of Margaret Haughery reminds us of the enduring power of compassion and community service. Her life story continues to inspire, highlighting the importance of supporting those in need. New Orleans’ tribute serves as a call to action for all to engage in their communities and uplift the less fortunate.

Stay tuned for more updates on this significant tribute to one of New Orleans’ most beloved figures.