I have always heard that Louis Armstrong played at the Savoy in the Miller Roy building. I never found concrete proof of that. I found ads for him playing at Carroll's Gym at the Monroe Colored High School, but not the Savoy. Well....found it! March 6, 1937 ad in the Monroe Broadcast.
Tag: Carroll Auditorium
Count Basie Plays Carroll Auditorium
I have told you about Carroll Auditorium at the Monroe Colored High School. It was a stop on the Chitlin' Circuit back in the days of segregation. Last month, while looking for info on Pierce's Pharmacy, I found this little ad in the News Star: It appeared in the January 25, 1948 News Star. WOW! … Continue reading Count Basie Plays Carroll Auditorium
Mahalia Jackson Comes to Monroe
In 1970, the Queen of Gospel herself, Mahalia Jackson sang at the Monroe Civic Center. Mayor Jack Howard presented her with a Pacemaker Bracelet and rolled out the red carpet for her. Mrs. Irma DeTiege took her around town and they made visits to several local pastors in the area. Among the songs Mrs. Jackson … Continue reading Mahalia Jackson Comes to Monroe
Etta Moten Performs at the Carroll Auditorium
Never heard of Etta Moten? Neither did I until I looked her up. Ms. Moten was the first black actress to appear on screen in a roll other than as a Mammy or Maid. She was a philanthropist and activist. She is best known for a little Gershwin Broadway play called, Porgy and Bess. She … Continue reading Etta Moten Performs at the Carroll Auditorium
A Found Priceless Treasure!
Saturday, I happened to be shopping in Antique Alley. I have one favorite store that never disappoints me. This time was no different. Tucked in a pile of yearbooks, was a tattered blue book with "Bulldog: 1951" on the cover. I opened it up and lo and behold, it was a very rare yearbook for … Continue reading A Found Priceless Treasure!
Ouachita Parish History Tidbits 