Discovering the origins of a fleur-de-lis frenzy

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By Rafaella Cuff

After the devastation from Hurricane Katrina, the popularity of the fleur-de-lis soared in South Louisiana representing the hardheaded resolve to recover New Orleans and the pride associated with the city. Now, it is hard to walk on campus and not see Mignon Faget jewelry, embroidered purses, printed clothing, and even the occasional tattoo of the symbol.

Yet, how many of the proud bearers of the fleur-de-lis, which means “lily flower” in French, know its history and many meanings? Over time, it has become representative of New Orleans for citizens of Louisiana, but rarely has its full history been considered. However, the fleur-de-lis appears often in history through architecture, painting, seals and more, so it is difficult to pinpoint its exact origin.

But why a lily? There are many legends and events in history that could have been instrumental in the creation of the symbol, the fleur-de-lis.

First of all, an important idea to note is the impact of Christianity upon the history of France. According to an article in the Encyclopedia Britannica, the legend of the lily of the valley claims lilies are a product of Eve’s tears upon her banishment from Eden. This could be related to the legend claiming the Virgin Mary presented a lily to Clovis, King of the Franks, at his baptism.

Historically, the fleur-de-lis is associated with the sovereignty of early French kings such as Philip I in the 11th century and King Louis VI and VII in the 12th century and has since then been adopted by other royals, noble families, countries and cities such as New Orleans.

Those who have read the Marquis de Sade’s “Justine” or Alexander Dumas’s “The Three Musketeers” know the fleur-de-lis is not always a good symbol. The fleur-de-lis was recognized as the stamp of a criminal in pre-revolutionary France. While most commonly associated with French royalty and Christianity, with the creation of the republic, the fleur-de-lis was often associated with being a traitor to the state.

Since Louisiana came under the control of Spain years before the French Revolution, this negative connotation with the fleur-de-lis never hit Louisiana.

In the French Quarter stands a statue of Joan of Arc, the Maid of Orleans, who not only sheds light on New Orleans’ proud French heritage, but, historically, is associated with the fleur-de-lis. Throughout history, it is believed Joan of Arc would carry a banner depicting the fleur-de-lis as she brought her troops to battle against the English.

Lindsay Eagan, LSU student and New Orleans native, wears the fleur-de-lis with pride.

“The fleur-de-lis is a cultural symbol representing where I am from, where I grew up and what I stand for,” Eagan said. “I have always liked the fleur-de-lis, but after hurricane Katrina, my appreciation for it grew. The storm had a sentimental feeling toward New Orleans, but now it is back to life and rebuilding,” Eagan said.

According to the Advocate, Gov. Bobby Jindal officially signed the fleur-de-lis as an official state symbol, and it can officially be used on Louisiana documentation.

Eagan noted it is great but felt it maybe took sentiment away from New Orleans a bit. However, she sees the fleur-de-lis as a powerful Louisiana symbol that is still local and a representative of New Orleans.

The impact of the fleur-de-lis has hit LSU. A new fad has been the fleur-de-tigre, which is visible all over campus as stickers on cars or images on T-shirts. It incorporates the passion for LSU with a pride of New Orleans, or as Eagan said, “It embodies two great loves into one image.”

Originally Published: Issue 758 - March 18, 2009

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