1863: Coffee is a big part of daily life in New Orleans

Coffee has been the drink of choice for many New Orleanians since the city was founded.

In the mid-19th century, numerous cafes were operating, and the port was a key supply point for beans from other parts of the world.

By 1863, though, the Union occupation had slowed business at the port. Still, some coffee purveyors persevered, including the new Cafe du Monde.

Today, the city has numerous independent coffee shops and several local chains, and the port is among the busiest in the country in coffee imports. And in eastern New Orleans, Folgers operates the largest roasting facility in the country.