Wednesday, May 17

Join AIA Houston Historic Resources Committee Speaker Series

Historic Eldorado Ballroom Tour

Join Stern and Bucek Architects and Source Historical Services for a tour of the recently restored and rehabilitated Eldorado Ballroom.  Constructed in 1939, the Streamline Moderne Style building was designed by Architect Lenard Gabert for Black entrepreneurs Anna and Clarence (C.A.) Dupree.  Located in Third Ward across the street from Emancipation Park, the ballroom was the premiere venue for Big Band, Jazz, Texas Blues and Rhythm and Blues. The two-story building was originally configured with 5 ground-floor retail units for black owned business, including a pharmacy, barber shop and café with the Eldorado Ballroom on the second level.

The recent rehabilitation effort began in 2012, with an elevator study to allow folks who experienced the ballroom in their younger days, to be able to experience the venue again. A rear addition and courtyards were constructed to provide extra space for the new café, a rear deck, support spaces including two green rooms, restrooms, and additional exits.