New Orleans Flor De Lis History And Information

By Jody Leach


There are many different symbols in the universe. Some have ties to the occult, others to groups, organizations and religions. For the most part, the original New Orleans Flor de lis or Fleur de lys is an emblem from a coat of arms. Most often used in Mardi Gras and other city celebrations, it is a symbol seen often at parades and other events in the Crescent City.

Different versions, colors and symbols have different meanings when it comes to the city of New Orleans. Most often these flags are used in festivals and parades. As it is believed the origin is from the time of King Clovis I in the Netherlands, it is most likely the King Cake of Mardi Gras tradition also stemmed from the same legend as the origin of the symbol.

Thought of as a universal code or symbol, it is often used without knowledge of its origin or past. In fact, many do not realize in its earliest uses it was related to royalty. Depending on the colors and designs the flag can hold different meanings, especially if those changes were made to the symbol after its arrival in the United States.

For the most part, French Canadians came to the area from the Netherlands. It is here where the symbol began. Although, the original design was attributed to the irises which still line the river Luts. To help distinguish the original version from others, look for the white petals which bend down to the beginning of the blooming flowers.

A poem, written by Guillaume de Nangis describes the symbol as golden flowers which grow from a ground of azure. The piece also describes the placement of the symbol on a shield to recognize it as a coat of arms. During, and since that time, it has been known as a symbol of royalty, most often provided to kings who subscribed to Christian based religious sects.

The truest origins of the symbol is most likely related to royalty and the French Monarchs. It is believed lilies were used when crowning King Clovis I. After which, the Monarchy adopted the symbol as a royal coat of arms. The symbol, in this case, representing loyalty, purity and faith.

Whether brought down by an angel, having immigrated from the time of Frankish kings or otherwise, the emblem has seen a great deal of use. None of the reported uses have included any aspect related to Voodoo or black magic. Its use in mardi gras parades and festivals in New Orleans, a city for known for Voodoo, is most likely the reason for this misconception.

Writers in the late 14th century once affirmed the symbol as being related to the French Monarchy. One legend tells of an angel bringing down the symbol which was a divine gift to a beloved King. As to whether this is the case or not, only those who received the coat of arms at the time know the truth. Unfortunately, due to its ancient origins, this is not possible. As such, interested individuals must define the meaning on a personal level based on history and legend.




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