February 13, 1872 - The First Rex Parade

The official anthem of Rex is "If Ever I Cease to Love", a hit song of the early 1870's era from a musical comedy named "Bluebeard". The musical's leading lady, Lydia Thompson, was performing in New Orleans at the time of the first Rex parade. The visiting Grand Duke Alexis of Russia, who had seen "Bluebeard" during his national tour, was also familiar with the song and with Thompson, to whom he had once sent a gift bracelet.

Bands in that first Rex parade serenaded the Grand Duke Alexis with the Russian national anthem as they marched past City Hall. When Rex, having dismounted at the Henry Clay statue on Canal Street, reviewed the parade, the bands played "If Ever I Cease To Love". Today, this song is played when Rex enters his Grand Ball and after the meeting of the Rex and Comus courts Mardi Gras night, signaling the end of the Mardi Gras celebration.

Reigning that day over the parade who's theme was "Triumphal Entry" was Mr. Lewis J. Salomon.

Sources: http://www.rexorganization.com/traditions.htm

http://www.picturehistory.com/find/p/7789/mcms.html