Samuel Hargress II facts for kids

Samuel Hargress II (born April 9, 1936 – died April 10, 2020) was an American business owner. He owned a famous jazz and blues club called Paris Blues in Harlem, New York City. This club opened in 1969. Samuel Hargress II was also a strong supporter of the Civil Rights Movement, working for equal rights for all people.

Samuel Hargress II: His Life and Legacy

Early Life and Activism

Samuel Hargress II was born in Demopolis, Alabama. He grew up on a farm there. His father, Samuel J. Hargress, was a minister. His mother was Katie Hargress.

His family had a background in music and entertainment. They owned a place called a "juke joint," which was a lively spot for music and dancing. This family history helped him develop a great love for music.

Hargress's grandfather was a soldier in World War I. He served in a brave Black army unit. This unit was known as the 369th Infantry Regiment. They were also called the "Harlem Hell Fighters."

In 1959, Hargress served in the U.S. Army. He was a military police officer in France. After his time in the Army, he returned to Alabama. There, he became deeply involved in the fight for civil rights.

He took part in the important Selma to Montgomery marches in 1965. He marched alongside famous leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. and Rosa Parks. These marches helped bring about equal rights for African Americans.

Opening Paris Blues

Later, Samuel Hargress II moved to Harlem. In 1969, he opened his own club, Paris Blues. He named it after his grandfather's service in France during the war.

Hargress spent over 50 years working in the nightlife business. He became well-known in the Harlem community. People knew him as someone who helped others. He often paid for community block parties and other local events.

In 2018, Hargress was an executive producer for a short film. It was called "Paris Blues in Harlem." He even played a small role in the film as a bar patron. His son, Samuel Hargress III, said that his father poured his heart and soul into the bar. He made the bar feel like a part of himself.

Samuel Hargress II passed away on April 10, 2020. This was just one day after his 84th birthday. He died from COVID-19 during the COVID-19 pandemic in New York City.

Awards and Recognition

• The Mayor of New York City, Bill de Blasio, gave Hargress a special award. He received the Key to the City of New York.