Luxe Noir is a fictional municipality appearing in the U. N Universe. A unique union of urban and rural, the township provides an exciting night out or a tranquil escape from the everyday. First appearing in A Suitable Wife, the township is also the original home of the Westbrooks.
Region:
Luxe Noir is located on the southeastern coast of the United States, near Charleston, SC. Made up of Luxe Noir Bay and Luxe Noir Island, it’s situated on a narrow strip of land between the Atlantic Ocean and the mainland.
The mainland, Luxe Noir Bay, is nestled within a sheltered bay, protected from the open sea by a natural barrier island that extends for several miles along the coast. Luxe Noir Bay is a small, affluent town, with a quaint downtown area and tree-lined streets. The town is surrounded by rolling hills and farmland and is known for its picturesque beauty and exclusive atmosphere. Despite its small size, Luxe Noir Bay is home to several high-end shops, restaurants, and cultural institutions.
The island, Luxe Noir Island, is connected to the mainland by a bridge. It lies just offshore from the town and is accessible by boat or car. The island which has a golf course is also known for maintaining large areas of unspoiled natural beauty, beaches, marshes, and forests. The island’s exclusivity has attracted wealthy residents, who have built elegant homes and estates overlooking the water.
Luxe Noir is a haven for those seeking exclusivity, natural beauty, and refined luxury.
History:
Luxe Noir Island was first settled in the mid-19th century. An illegal ship carrying a group of enslaved Africans docked on Robins Island. Their main job was harvesting lumber and other exports. Over time, the enslaved population grew, and a small community developed on the island. After the Civil War and the abolition of slavery, about five families of formerly enslaved residents of Robins Island remained on the island. Of the families that remained, their origin could be traced back to different tribes from present day Nigeria, Guinea, Angola, Mali, Senegal and Ghana. They worked to build a new community and were joined by some free Black Americans who were attracted to the island’s natural beauty and seclusion.
One of these newcomers was Odell Jackson, a free Black man from Charleston. Jackson was a successful, wealthy businessman who had made his fortune in shipping and trade. He recognized the island’s potential and began buying up land and investing in the community to include the mainland.
Over time, the community on the island grew and prospered. He also fell in love with Eliza, a descendant of the original Bambara enslaved population on the island. They got married and expanded their family. The descendants of Odell and Eliza played a key role in the community’s development and expansion into the mainland. They worked to build schools, churches, and other institutions that would help the community thrive. Subsequently they renamed the island Luxe Noir Island in 1924. A name derived from the French influence on Guinea (from the Bambara tribe) which can be translated to mean “Black Luxury.”
As the town on the mainland now named Luxe Noir Bay began to develop, many residents of Luxe Noir Island migrated there to take advantage of new economic opportunities. Over time, the two communities became more integrated, with residents of Luxe Noir Island playing an important role in the growth and prosperity of Luxe Noir Bay. During the Reconstruction era, Luxe Noir survived by continuing to build on the foundation it had established during its early years: a self-sufficient and prosperous place with its own unique culture and traditions. They had developed a thriving trade in artisanal goods and had become skilled in fishing and cultivating crops. These skills and resources were used to sustain the community during the tumultuous years.
In addition, Luxe Noir ‘s close-knit community maintained its strength through the deep bonds with one another, forged in the struggles of slavery and the hard work of building a new way of life.
Today, Luxe Noir Bay is a prosperous and thriving small town, with a strong sense of history and community. The town’s residents take pride in their connection to Luxe Noir Island and the contributions of its residents to the town’s success. While the island remains a more secluded and exclusive community, it is still an important part of the town’s identity and history.
Climate:
Influenced by the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico, the climate is subtropical. During the summer months, temperatures are hot and humid, with occasional thunderstorms and periods of heavy rainfall. Average temperatures could range from the mid to high 80s, with high humidity levels. In the winter, temperatures are milder, with occasional cold fronts bringing cooler temperatures and occasional snowfall, particularly in the northern areas of the township. Average temperatures in the winter could range from the mid-40s to low 60s.
Population:
As a hub for Black elite, Luxe Noir is a tight-knit community of affluent and influential residents, who value their privacy and exclusivity. Population as at 2020 census, was 18,128.
Education:
The average person has a master’s degree. Majority of the residents are made up of entrepreneurs, doctors. lawyers, engineers. The prestigious private Luxe Noir Academy (LNA) and Luxe Noir University (LNU) are located in Luxe Noir Bay. The island’s natural beauty and amenities, such as beaches and water sports, makes it an attractive location for students and faculty. The neighboring city of Mount Plesant services the public school system that services some resident of Luxe Noir.
Government:
The government of Luxe Noir is designed to provide local services and amenities to residents, including police and fire protection, waste management, and zoning regulations. Incorporated by the state, its officials include a mayor, the town council, a town manager and other officials including a town clerk, treasurer, or other administrative or regulatory officials.
Economy:
The economy of Luxe Noir is diverse, with a mix of tourism, art, real estate, and agriculture, which support a range of businesses and services catering to both residents and visitors.
Issues:
Racism & discrimination. Gentrification. Maintaining exclusivity. Environmental concerns.
The Westbrooks of Luxe Noir Bay
Unoma Nwankwor 