Danse Macabre

Victoria Boffort

1849-1897

The biggest deaths that occurred in the mansion happened in 1897, when William invited his widowed aunt Victoria Boffort. She was an outgoing and sociable person, together she and William began to open the doors to the New Orleans elite, hosting parties and galas at her nephew’s famous estate.

These balls became the talk of New Orleans, and invitations were actively sought when word spread of some event happening at the Gracey Mansion, especially during Mardi Gras and Hallowe’en- not simply because they were fantastic affairs, but because of the intrigue surrounding the rumors of ghosts and spirits.

Interestingly, it seemed to a few that whenever the mysterious Madame Leota was in a bad mood at a party, the cases of strange activity would increase. The parties that Victoria hosted would interrupt her seances in trying to contact the spirit world. One night, Leota burst out of the doors of the balcony that overlooked the grand hall and cursed at all the party goers, “13 nights on the 13th hour, you will all die!” But Victoria only laughed at the medium, and she continued her parties for 13 nights.

The 13th night was held on October 31st as a Halloween party, guests came in costumes as the music was provided by the organist. For refreshments, tea was provided for the guests. Just before midnight, the guests fell ill. The town physician was called for, but came too late. The doctor found out that water from the tea was contaminated. Fortunately both the Gracey family and the staff were spared, except for Victoria. She died in bed with a smile on her lips. What was even more freighting it that Leota's prediction came true. Whether it out of spit or to warn them of their death still remains a mystery to this day. After their deaths on that fateful Halloween night, it is said that their spirits celebrated for all eternity.