City of New Orleans Proclamation in Honor of Allen Eskew
City of New Orleans | February 25, 2014
Whereas, Allen Eskew was a son of Louisiana and of New Orleans. He was a friend of those who knew him and a true partner to those who loved and learned with him; and
Whereas, the story goes that after Robert Johnson sold his soul to the devil, he then tricked the devil by hiding a piece of his soul in every one of his songs. That way, when Robert Johnson died, there was nothing left for the devil to take, as his soul was left in his music. Without a deal with the devil, Allen Eskew accomplished that same feat.
Allen planned and designed so very many interesting and important projects in his career. A little research will tell you which ones, but just know that as you walk New Orleans, as you listen to music in Lafayette, as you advertise in Baton Rouge, as you study, sleep or celebrate in this region you do so in the shadow of Allen Ekew’s soul. It is humbling to think that someone we all knew and worked with could leave that kind of legacy. We are all better for the walk in that incredible, beautiful and lasting shadow; and
Whereas, the City of New Orleans was blessed to have Allen for the season he served this city. He was an objective professional, driven by civic service, urgent to see this city be its best version of itself and a voice of encouragement to help us all become the manifestation of what was possible.
Be It Resolved by the New Orleans City Planning Commission and Staff that we recognize and express our gratitude for the professional work, personal spirit and vision of our friend Allen Eskew, and our deepest condolences to his family, colleagues and friends.
Kelly Brown, Chair; Craig B. Mitchell, Vice-Chair; Joseph E. Williams; Lois C. Lawrence; Robert M. Steeg; Pamela Bryan; Royce Duplessis; Nolan Marshall, III; Kyle Wedberg