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Krewe organized in 1872
600 male riders
21 floats
The quintessential Carnival parade
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The identities of Rex and his Queen are revealed on Lundi Gras.
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Everything from the School of Design is collectible; krewe-emblem cups, medallion necklaces, and doubloons.
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Rex may be referred to as simply Rex,
The King of Carnival, or The Merry Monarch,
but should never be called "King Rex" because it is redundant. 'Rex' is 'king' in Latin.
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From
his first appearance (in the form of Louis Salaman) in 1872, Rex has
been the internationally-recognized symbol of New Orleans Carnival, but
the name of his krewe is still quite unknown to many. The School
of Design, more commonly referred to as the Rex Organization,
established the standards for Mardi Gras, enjoined the Grand Duke of Russia to determine the colors of
purple, green, and gold from the heraldic tradition, assigned their
meanings, and helped make what had previously been a raucous, chaotic few days
into a rich and meaningful celebration unlike no other in the world.
While Rex is King of Carnival, the krewe itself is the third-oldest
parading organization, preceeded by Proteus and Comus. The
official close of the Carnival season occurs when Rex and his queen
visit the court of Comus as the finale of both balls.
Each Lundi Gras, Rex arrives on the Riverwalk, and is met by the Zulu
King and the mayor of New Orleans to officially take control of his
kingdom for Mardi Gras.
The School of Design and His Majesty The King of Carnival begin their
parade every Mardi Gras morning at 10am sharp. ALL HAIL REX, THE
MERRY MONARCH!
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