Golden Gate Ballroom facts for kids
| Address | New York City United States |
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The Golden Gate Ballroom was a super fancy dance hall in Harlem, a famous neighborhood in New York City. It was first called the "State Palace Ballroom." You could find it at the corner of Lenox Avenue and 142nd Street. This huge place was said to be the biggest public hall in Harlem. It had a dance floor as big as 25,000 square feet, which is like a giant playground! About 5,000 people could dance there at once, and thousands more could watch.
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A Look Back at the Golden Gate Ballroom
The Golden Gate Ballroom opened its doors in October 1939. A businessman named Jay Faggen was the main person behind making it happen. Before it became a ballroom, the building was a theater called the Douglas Theater.
Competition and Closure
By the middle of 1940, the Golden Gate Ballroom had the same owner and manager as the famous Savoy Ballroom. The Golden Gate was one of many jazz clubs in Harlem, especially on Lenox Avenue. It was a big rival to the Savoy Ballroom, trying to attract the same crowds. The Golden Gate Ballroom closed its doors around 1950.
Famous Performers and Music
Many amazing musicians played at the Golden Gate Ballroom. Some of the notable performers included:
- Les Hite
- Harlan Leonard
- Claude Hopkins
- Milt Herth
- Jimmie Lunceford
- Count Basie
- Hot Lips Page
- Josh White
- Art Tatum
- Billie Holiday
- Hazel Scott
- Coleman Hawkins
The very first stars to perform on opening night were the Cotton Club Parade performers, along with Stepin Fetchit and the legendary Louis Armstrong. The Teddy Wilson orchestra was the regular band that played there, known as the house band.
Community Hub
The Golden Gate Ballroom was more than just a place for music and dancing. It was also a important spot for the community.
- It was the first place where pastor Alvin A. Childs started his church work in Harlem.
- The ballroom hosted many community events.
- Political rallies were held there, where people gathered to talk about important issues.
- It was the location for the "Miss Fine Brown Frame" beauty pageant.
- Sometimes, the huge dance floor was even turned into a roller skating rink for everyone to enjoy!
