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Marianne Brion Dubreuil and her family made their mark on New Orleans’ 300-year history. Of African descent, Marianne Dubreuil was born in 1735 and emancipated in 1772. As a successful businesswoman, she accumulated valuable real estate over her lifetime.
Among the wealthiest women in the city, Marianne Dubreuil still faced challenges as a free woman of color. Marianne Dubreuil’s legacy continued with her descendant Henriette Delille, who founded the Sisters of the Holy Family. Currently under consideration for sainthood, Henriette Delille would be the first U.S.-born black person to be recognized as a saint.