This work investigates the historical origins, cultural significance, and etymological evolution of the street names within New Orleans. John Churchill Chase, a noted Louisiana historian and cartoonist, utilizes archival records, municipal documents, and local lore to construct a comprehensive guide to the city's unique urban nomenclature. The text serves as a bridge between the city's colonial past and its modern identity, framing street names as markers of historical memory.

Historians and local researchers frequently cite this text as a foundational reference for understanding the cultural geography of New Orleans. Readers often note that the prose is accessible and engaging, making it a standard resource for those interested in the city's complex historical development.