Undated photo copy of Thomy Lafon.

ID: 6412 ~ Source: Courtesy of the State Library of Louisiana.

This file appears in: Locust Grove Cemeteries No. 1 and 2 and Thomy Lafon School

Thomy Lafon was born a Gens de Couleur Libres (Free Person of Color) on December 28 in New Orleans, Louisiana. Throughout his life he contributed much of his wealth to his community for the betterment of African Americans in New Orleans. He was known as a philanthropist, businessman, and activist.

This file appears in: Locust Grove Cemeteries No. 1 and 2 and Thomy Lafon School

Locust Grove Cemeteries No. 1 and 2 and Thomy Lafon School

By By Macie Michalik, edited by Elizabeth Williams

Today the blocks bound by Magnolia, Seventh, Freret, and Sixth streets appear to be a vacant greenspace. However, for nearly a century, these two blocks housed the Thomy Lafon School complex. Originally built in 1906, the property operated as a…