Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Fundraisers for Ruthie the Duck Girl:

What are the funds for?

The proceeds for Ruthie’s birthday party go directly into the fund (sponsored by Friends of New Orleans Cemeteries) to purchase a tomb in a prominent cemetery for Ruthie. St. Louis Cemetery #1 is our ideal location being that it is close to the French Quarter, and many tour groups visit daily. We would like to purchase and restore a tomb that is no longer used, or perhaps build a new one. It is our wish that Ruthie be remembered for generations to come with an ornate tomb for the famous "Duck Girl of the Vieux Carre," the last of the old French Quarter characters. There will never be another like her. Remember, Ruthie was born and raised in New Orleans. She roamed the streets of the Quarter and was known as the Duck Girl for 50 years!

How morbid! Why don’t you raise money for Ruthie to enjoy now?

Ruthie has benefits that pay for her care in the nursing home. She doesn’t have any immediate costs. Her friends look out for her and make sure she has the things she needs. Ruthie has no place to be buried. We prefer not to scramble around figuring out what to do when the time comes.

I saw in the documentary on Ruthie, that she visited her brother’s tomb. Why can’t she be buried with her family?

Ruthie’s brother and mother were buried in an unmarked tomb owned by Catholic Charities.

Does Ruthie have one foot in the grave?

Absolutely not. She appears to be much healthier than when she was on the streets.

How much money did you raise at Ruthie’s party?

We raised approximately $800. Last year we raised $1600. There was less publicity this year, and most people thought Ruthie was not going to be there. We were also short on volunteers.

What if Ruthie passes away before the money is raised?

That’s a good question. I guess it depends on the response from the community. Before the tomb fund, there was an initial effort to start a fund to erect a statue of Ruthie in the French Quarter. If the money and project do not come into fruition, then the money will go towards a statue fund.

How can I help?

By sending a monetary donation. Checks payable to "Friends of New Orleans Cemeteries." You can also donate your time or resources to future fundraisers. We are planning a sale/auction of boxes and boxes of items that were cleaned out of Ruthie’s apartment on Dauphine St. Items include clothes, costume jewelry, posters, photos, hats, kitchen items, dolls, postcards, and her collection of odds and ends.

Contact rdelaup@eccentricneworleans.com

Eccentric New Orleans
P.O. Box 791329
New Orleans, LA. 70179-1329