New Orleans LA Moving Companies

New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans has grown from a tiny swamp colony populated by French convicts to a major economic hub, and a sports-minded city of elegance, culture and spirit. Those moving to New Orleans will find a wonderful place to work, play and raise a family.

History:
When Spain transferred Louisiana back to France in 1803, President Thomas Jefferson purchased the territory for $15 million. New Orleans was incorporated two years later. The years following the Louisiana Purchase saw rapid development and growth in the city's slave and free population. The U.S. and foreign interests invested in the expanding port and immigration increased. The city's prosperity depended heavily on slave labor, however, and economic threats to this trade made New Orleans largely pro-confederate in the Civil War. After the war, reconstruction in New Orleans was hindered by rivalry between ethnic and economic factions. However, eventually, the city emerged as a railroad and shipping center. Jazz, considered the unique American music expression, developed in New Orleans at the beginning of the 20th century while the city continued to celebrate its cultural origins with the Mardi Gras and world-renowned cuisine. Tourists began to pour into the city to experience its celebrations and unique neighborhoods. At the beginning of the 21st century, a downtown rebirth was on the minds of city planners. A multi-million dollar project that includes a long list of improvements to New Orleans' entire downtown area is aimed at restoring the downtown and Canal Street for the millions of tourists that visit the city each year. Today, New Orleans is a successful blend of southern historical charm and modern tourist attractions.

Economy:
Four major sectors, including oil and gas and related activities, tourism, the port and ship and boat building, and aerospace manufacturing dominate the New Orleans economy. The presence of universities, hospitals, legal and accounting and other professional services, together with key installations of the U.S. Navy and other military operations in the region adds further to its diversified economic base. Tourism continues to be the driving force of New Orleans' economy. Boasting attractions such as its magnetic French Quarter, America's largest Mardis Gras festival, and riverboat gambling, New Orleans has a history of solid tourist trade. In a city with more than 10 million visitors annually, the hospitality business supplies more than 66,000 jobs in the service sector such as accommodations and restaurants. In 2004, tourists spent $4.9 billion in New Orleans. At the beginning of the 21st century, New Orleans was heralded by several magazines as a top place for small businesses and entrepreneurs. One magazine noted that statistics from the Small Business Administration showed that small businesses in the area create more than 75 percent of new jobs. In recent years, the economy has diversified into such varied fields as health services, aerospace and research and technology. The New Orleans region is also a major transportation hub and a leader in production of crude oil and natural gas processing facilities.

Tourism:
Begin your exploration at one of the city’s many Art Museums. From the smallest Art museums found inside New Orleans’ major universities, to the grand showcase rooms of the New Orleans Museum of Art and Contemporary Arts Center, there is something for every taste. Next, head over to one of the country’s top-ranked zoos. Audubon Zoo offers an exotic mix of animals from around the globe, engaging natural habitats, lush gardens and resting spots, the mystical Louisiana swamp and ‘hands-on’ animal encounters. Then, walk beneath the vivid Caribbean Reef, marvel at the beauty of the Amazon Rainforest and journey the Mississippi River at Audubon Aquarium of the Americas where penguins, stingrays, sharks and other deep-sea creatures await you. Last but not least, check out the Jackson Square, located in the heart of the French Quarter. This historic park was named for Andrew Jackson after his victory in the Battle of New Orleans. The park was known as the Place d' Armes until 1814. In the center of the park stands an equestrian statue of Jackson.

Colleges/Universities:

• The University of New Orleans
• Tulane University
• Loyola University New Orleans

Interesting Facts:

• The nickname "The Big Easy" comes from the city's history of jazz.
• The Superdome in New Orleans is the world’s largest steel-constructed room unobstructed by posts.
• New Orleans is considered the birthplace of jazz.