From Valleynewslive · · 50s
True Friends Hall Restoration
Louisiana's True Friends Hall restoration project aims to save historic Black music landmark.
In brief
Louisiana's True Friends Hall restoration project aims to save historic Black music landmark. True Friends Hall, a historic Black community center built in the late 1800s, is undergoing a $1.3 million restoration to preserve its role in the Chitlin' Circuit music history. Originally reported by Valleynewslive.
Historic Black Community Center
True Friends Hall, built in the late 1800s in Donaldsonville, served as a cornerstone of the local Black community for decades.
Chitlin' Circuit Hub
During segregation, True Friends Hall was part of the Chitlin' Circuit, a network of performance venues for Black musicians and entertainers.
Community Refuge
The hall provided meals, shelter, and a gathering place for Black families during an era of widespread discrimination.
Restoration Project
After closing in the 1980s, the hall received $1.3 million from Louisiana for a restoration including a performance stage and music academy.
The takeaway
True Friends Hall, a historic Black community center built in the late 1800s, is undergoing a $1.3 million restoration to preserve its role in the Chitlin' Circuit music history.
