Living amongst the Cities of the Dead

Living amongst the Cities of the Dead: historic cemeteries of New Orleans

Presented by Tyler Lott Johnston
28 October 2021, 18:30 - 19:30 (BST)
Live Online Lecture
£5 pp - SPAB members
£6 pp - Non-members

In this special lecture for Halloween, you’ll be spirited away to ghostly New Orleans, as we explore the history and architecture of its celebrated cemeteries, and the unique multi-cultural influences that have shaped the relationship between the city’s living and the dead. Known widely as the Cities of the Dead, the forty two expansive necropolises of New Orleans embody a built heritage as colourful and as complex as the city itself.  

These cemeteries, and the mausolea within them, have been battered by centuries of war, natural disasters and bouts of neglect. Despite this, their cultural and architectural significance means that they remain one of the most visually stunning and notable aspects of the city, drawing in millions of tourists every year to admire their beauty. 

Join buildings conservator and New Orleans native Tyler Lott Johnston for an in-depth and behind the scenes look at some of the most unique, unexpected and notable tombs. She explains how their residents and the city’s unique culture shaped their design and construction, and has ensured that they survive despite all odds. 

Tyler Lott Johnston BA MSc is a building conservator and SPAB member living and working in Scotland. She serves as a Trustee of the Built Environment Forum Scotland and as Chair of the Edinburgh Traditional Building Forum. A self-professed taphophile (cemetery enthusiast) from a young age, Tyler has spent years studying graves, tombs, and mausolea in her free time and is a passionate advocate for their care and maintenance, and for raising awareness of their significance. She is a member of IHBC, ICON, Scottish Vernacular Buildings Working Group, the Building Limes Forum, the Museum and Mausolea Trust and Caring for God’s Acre, amongst others.  

Tyler's talk will be recorded and available to watch on demand for a limited time after the live presentation. Bookings must be made in advance to receive this recording link.

IT requirements: Please note that this is an online lecture and will be held via a webinar platform (Zoom). You will be sent instructions on how to join the session the day before the lecture. To participate, all you need is an internet connection, and a laptop, computer or phone with the ability to play video and audio.   

Accessibility: please contact the SPAB before booking to discuss any special access requirements.

Booking Terms & Conditions
 

Image credit: Glenn Todd