Find-A-Grave: Willie V. Piazza

Madam Willie V. Piazza

Resting Place: Greenwood Cemetery, New Orleans, Louisiana

Plot: 14 Jessamine Aloe Orange

Birth: 1865

Death: November 1932

Willie Piazza was a prominent figure in early 20th-century New Orleans, known for her influence within the city's cultural and social spheres, particularly during the era of Storyville, the famed red-light district. Piazza was a celebrated madam who operated a high-end brothel, which gained a reputation for luxury, exclusivity, and discretion. Her establishment catered to a wealthy and elite clientele, setting itself apart with refined decor and high standards.

Piazza was also notable for her role in challenging racial norms of the time, as she identified as a Creole woman of mixed heritage. Her establishment welcomed clients of diverse backgrounds, making it distinctive in a segregated society. Her business acumen, charisma, and ability to navigate the social and legal challenges of her era solidified her status as one of the most respected and enigmatic figures in the Storyville community.

Despite the eventual closure of Storyville in 1917, Piazza’s legacy endures as a symbol of resilience and sophistication in the face of societal constraints, reflecting the vibrancy and complexity of New Orleans’ cultural history.