This episode of Southern Gothic is the first in the three-part series "Birth of a City: New Orleans," a story that chronicles the inception of a great American city and the legends that evolved with it. Part I: The Casket Girls In 1721 the French founded the city of New Orleans as the mouth of the Mississippi River, but development was slow, so the city's leaders requested young women of marriageable age to be sent to the young colony. Unfortunately, little is known about the origins of these women, who some believe may have been the first vampires to immigrate to the New World. Women, who have become known as "The Casket Girls." Theme music for "Birth of a City: New Orleans" was written and performed by Grammy nominated singer-songwriter Adam Wright. Additional narration by Donna Elwin of the podcast A Paranormal Chicks. Visit SouthernGothicMedia.com for news, notes and access to special members-only episodes. Help Southern Gothic grow by becoming a Patreon Supporter today! Connect with Southern Gothic Media: Website: SouthernGothicMedia.com Merch Store: https://www.southerngothicmedia.com/merch Pinterest: @SouthernGothicMedia Facebook: @SouthernGothicMedia Instagram: @SouthernGothicMedia Twitter: @SoGoPodcast Join our Facebook Group! If you are a sponsor looking to advertise on the show visit Airwave Media or email contact@airwavemedia.com for information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices