Vintage CLUB HARLEM Atlantic City NJ Black Music Nightclub TABLE KNOCKER Swizzle

Vintage, 1940’s…

CLUB HARLEM

Atlantic City, NJ

Black Nightclub

TABLE KNOCKER

Measures about 7” long.

“Founded in 1935 by brothers Leroy “Pop” and Cliff Williams, Club Harlem was a retreat from racial discrimination and segregation in the city, a home for African-American musicians, artists, and comedians to display their craft in front of an inclusive community. Like its Harlem counterpart, the Cotton Club, many of Club Harlem's guests were white, wealthy and eager to experience a night of African-American entertainment.

An elaborate all-black revue called Smart Affairs, produced by Larry Steele and headquartered at the club from 1946 to 1971, featured 40 to 50 acts and was on a par with Broadway productions. Performers at the club included Sammy Davis Jr. (who would also invite the white members of the Rat Pack), Dick Gregory, Dinah Washington, Bootsie Barnes, Gladys Knight, Teddy Pendegrass, Hot Lips Page, and Wild Bill Davis.

Club Harlem was the site of the 1972 Easter morning shootout of a Black Mafia operative by 3 rival operatives, leaving five dead and 20 wounded, in full view of a show audience estimated at about 600 people. The club closed in 1986 and was demolished in 1992.”

CONDITION:

Excellent, vintage condition. Light wear to rubber head. See photos for details.

Please message for any questions, thanks.