In 1936, as New Orleans was suffering from the effects of the Great Depression, a group of concerned businessmen and civic leaders sought to start a new Carnival Krewe and parade to help lift people’s spirits and attract new tourists to the city.

One member of the group, F. Edward Herbert, a newspaper reporter who later became a congressman, suggested naming the new krewe after Hermes, the Greek god of commerce, protector of travelers, and messenger of the gods.

Since then, Hermes has been the inspiration for the Krewe and a source of joy and excitement for thousands of parade spectators.

Along the way, Hermes’ winged foot and an elaborate crest were adopted as symbols of the krewe.

Both the winged foot, crest, and Hermes himself appear on the toys, beads, and doubloons thrown by Hermes float riders, as well as on pins and ties worn by krewe members.