Historic BK House & Gardens

The mission of the Keyes Foundation/Friends of BK House is the preservation and maintenance of the Historic BK House & Gardens, including its structural integrity, period décor,

collections and furnishings, and adjoining dependencies, courtyard, and formal garden. Through its collections, exhibits, educational programs, guided tours, and special events, the museum educates the public about the historical significance of the site, demonstrates the importance of historic preservation, and strives to raise community awareness of New Orleans cultural heritage.

The Historic BK House & Gardens is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and has been operated since 1970 by the Keyes Foundation as a house museum. The site includes the main residence and dependency built in 1826, a parterre garden restored to its mid-19th century appearance, a large courtyard, and 20thcentury auxiliary structures. The residence is an outstanding example of an architect-designed raised cottage with American and Creole features.

Through its buildings, gardens, collections, exhibits, educational programs, guided tours, and special events, the museum educates the public about the historical significance of the site, demonstrates the importance of historic preservation, and strives to raise community awareness of New Orleans' cultural heritage. The museum's collections are exhibited on a regular basis for the educational, cultural, and aesthetic enrichment of both locals and visitors to the city. Documentary research and accuracy in presentation guide the programs and activities of the museum so that the visitor experience fosters interest in preserving America’s architectural monuments and historical legacy.

Visitors to the house represent all ages and many ethnicities and hail from fifty states and forty-two countries. Some have an established interest in the city's history and architecture or in Mrs. Keyes’ life and work, while others are interested in experiencing a venerable Vieux Carré home.