Back in 1950, the nationally known “Ted Mack Amateur Hour” came to Monroe. Think “American Idol” but kinder. It is said Ted Mack’s show originated the idea for talent shows on air! Anyway, a fourteen year old kid named Jerry Lee Lewis from Ferriday performed on the piano in the show. I have never heard how he did! The world wouldn’t know what hit them for another six or seven years!
Just for fun, I found the ads for Jerry Lee Lewis’ performances in Monroe. I know this isn’t all of them. Here are some more I found:
The West Monroe Fairgrounds: He was a regular performer at the Ouachita Valley Jamboree in 1952. He also performed solo there March 3, 1959.
Blackie’s Club: Oct. 17, 1959 (I have done a post about this performance before)
West Monroe High School: March 12, 1962
The Rendezvous Lounge: Oct. 22-24, 1962
Mom’s Rainbow Inn: February 4, 1967
The Monroe Civic Center: Feb. 5, 1971, January 7, 1972 and October 24, 1981
The Red Dog Ballroom: July 27, 1974
The Eastside Club: June 14, 1968
Ouachita Parish History Tidbits 
Love to hear about when Elvis Auditioned in 1953 For the Outchita Valley Jamboree?
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Never heard this story! Neat!
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