A Timeless Beginning: The Faessel Legacy at Magazine and Third

In 1866, the vibrant streets of Uptown New Orleans witnessed the dawn of a story that would endure for generations. Louis Faessel, an ambitious young man from Alsace, France, joined forces with his father-in-law, Anton Ritter, to purchase two parcels of land at the bustling corner of Magazine and Third Streets. Together, they envisioned a legacy—a space that would bring people together in commerce, community, and celebration.

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Faessel, a dedicated grocer, and Ritter, a seasoned shopkeeper, both hailed from German-French immigrant families whose roots ran deep in the city’s fabric. At the time, Faessel and his young family lived modestly, with Louis working tirelessly to build a better future. In 1868, following the untimely passing of his wife, Magdalena Ritter Faessel, Louis sought to honor her memory by creating something extraordinary.

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That same year, architect Adam Graner, a Bavarian immigrant renowned for his masterful designs, was hired to construct a grand building on the corner of Magazine and Third. The project became a labor of love, featuring an elegant two-story brick structure that seamlessly blended utility and charm. Its wrought-iron balcony and mahogany staircase symbolized timeless beauty, while the lower level’s cypress-wood floors and dual-storefront design were built for bustling activity.

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By 1869, Faessel became the sole owner of the property, converting it into a thriving feed store and expanding his influence in the community. His personal wealth flourished, and by the 1870s, the building became a beacon of prosperity—a place where families gathered, businesses thrived, and stories unfolded.