Society of Saint Anne

La Société de Saint Anne was founded in 1969 by residents of the French Quarter and nearby Faubourgs who recognized the need for a return to earlier traditions of "walking krewes" which at one time were more prevalent but which had been overshadowed by the development of larger float parades in the early 20th Century.

As the float parades grew in scale and number, they were forced to move out of the narrow streets of the French Quarter and onto broader avenues uptown and in mid-City.

The original krewe now can be identified by the cluster of crabnets (beribboned hoops carried aloft on long poles) and the presence of the Storyville Stompers.

Known for the very elaborate and beautiful costumes of its members, the core group gathers in the Bywater neighborhood of New Orleans each Mardi Gras morning, with the Storyville Stompers brass band providing the music.

The marchers continue to Canal Street to watch the Zulu Social Aid & Pleasure Club Parade and Rex Parade, then return into the French Quarter where they perform private rituals to honor those members who have passed during the previous year, then disperse to continue the celebration of those still living at private house parties, along the levee, and in the streets.