The Krewe Of Proteus: Proteus was founded in 1882. Proteus, "The Old Man Of The Sea," is a "Mardi Gras god" second only to Comus (which no longer parades.) Although Proteus withdrew from the parade route in the 1990's, it is once again entertaining the crowd with its traditionalist style. The identity of the king is never revealed.
The Parade and Throws: The king's float is a signature giant seashell, signifying his origins and royal realm. The chassis of the floats were built in the 1880's and so are on wooden wheels. This is one of the night parades that feature flambeaux, the flame-carrying young men who used to provide all the lights for evening parades. Besides cups and lighted beads, this krewe throws rare glass beads, which were popular in the 1950's and 60's.
When: Proteus always rolls on Lundi Gras.
