A historically black college that served African Americans in New Orleans from 1869 to 1935.
New Orleans University was founded in 1869 by the Freedmen's Aid Society with support from the Methodist Episcopal Church to serve African American students in New Orleans. The institution was initially located above Canal Street in the Lower Garden District at Camp and Race streets, later relocating to 5318 St. Charles Avenue. It operated as a private, historically black college during a critical period of American education for formerly enslaved and free Black communities.
The university functioned as an auxiliary institution to Gilbert Academy, a prestigious college-preparatory school for African American students. The two schools underwent an administrative merger in 1919 while maintaining separate locations. This partnership reflected the educational ecosystem serving Black students in New Orleans during the early 20th century.
In 1935, New Orleans University merged with Straight College to form Dillard University at a new campus in the Gentilly neighborhood. Following the consolidation, Gilbert Academy relocated to the buildings previously occupied by New Orleans University, ensuring continuity of educational services in the community.