Eddie Cantor Performs at Neville

The above ad appeared in the News Star in 1950. From about the 20s - 40's, Eddie Cantor was a HUGE Hollywood star! His singing and comedy routines were legendary. Those in the Greatest and Silent generations adored him. Those big eyes were as familiar to America as Jimmy Durante's nose! Eddie founded the March … Continue reading Eddie Cantor Performs at Neville →

Concerts at Neville Auditorium.

I am amazed at the national level talent that came through Monroe in the middle of the last century. I just browsed around searching instances where Neville Auditorium was mentioned in the papers and I was floored. I know this is not a complete list but just look at the names! Neville was one of … Continue reading Concerts at Neville Auditorium. →

Area High Schools Once Had Live Mascots!

Did you know that Neville and Ouachita Parish High School once had live mascots? Above is pictured Shasta the tiger, who was Neville's mascot. Ouachita's lion mascot was called Cheepa, named after the noise he made as a cub! Both animals were kept at the Zoo and used in the zoo's captive breeding program, but … Continue reading Area High Schools Once Had Live Mascots! →

Neville High School – Circa 1950’s

https://www.louisianadigitallibrary.org/islandora/object/oplib-pho%3A491 Anyone recognize these men and women? None were identified. The clothing looks like the early fifties. We do know it was taken on the steps of Neville High School.

Christmas Festival Program For Neville High School, December 22, 1931

https://louisianadigitallibrary.org/islandora/object/oplib-orv%3A72 This is a rare little document from our collection. According to the News Star, this was held at Neville High school and after the program the public was invited to tour the brand new school!

Bob Hope Comes to Monroe

This is a full page ad asking locals to buy War Bonds. This was in 1943, in the middle of WWII. Everyone who did buy a bond, got a free ticket to see Bob Hope at the Neville auditorium! Bob came to Monroe several times over the years, performing at Selman Field, Neville Auditorium and … Continue reading Bob Hope Comes to Monroe →