Richard Wells (dancer) facts for kids

Richard "Dickie" Wells (1908–1949) was a famous American tap dancer. He was so well-known in his community that people affectionately called him "Mr. Harlem."

Dickie Wells started his career as part of a dance group called the "Wells, Mordecai and Taylor" Dance Trio. This group included Jimmy Mordecai and Ernest Taylor. They performed in many popular places, including the famous Cotton Club. After his dancing career, Wells used his experience to become a successful nightclub owner.

Dickie's Club: A Harlem Hotspot

Dickie Wells owned and managed his own nightclub, which was simply called "Dickie's Club." This club became very popular, especially for its delicious food. Many people believe that Dickie Wells was the person who first created the famous dish of chicken and waffles at his club!

His club attracted many well-known people from different fields. Famous visitors included actors like Tallulah Bankhead, Errol Flynn, Ava Gardner, Clark Gable, Charlie Chaplin, and Joan Crawford. Even important figures like Bumpy Johnson and the writer Walter Winchell from Harlem would visit his club. A talented performer named Billy Daniels often entertained guests at Dickie's Club.

Later Life and Legacy

Dickie Wells passed away in 1949. He is buried at Woodlawn Cemetery in the Bronx, New York. Even though he is gone, Dickie Wells is remembered for his amazing tap dancing skills and for creating a welcoming and popular club in Harlem.