Northwest Corner of 142nd Street and Lenox Avenue
The Cotton Club, a legendary New York City speakeasy, remains an icon of the Roaring Twenties. Established in 1923 in Harlem, this opulent jazz club quickly became the epitome of glamour and extravagance during the Prohibition era. The club was not-so-secretly owned by the notorious mobster Owney Madden, who was a prominent figure in organized crime during that time. Despite its illicit association, The Cotton Club thrived as a hub of African-American culture and jazz music, hosting the era’s most prominent jazz musicians, singers, and dancers. It was a place where people from different backgrounds came together to revel in the electrifying performances and vibrant atmosphere. The club was known for its strict segregation policy, only allowing white patrons while showcasing African-American talent on stage. The Cotton Club’s legacy continues to captivate history enthusiasts, embodying the spirit of a bygone era when rebellion, jazz, and flamboyance defined an unforgettable chapter in New York City’s cultural history.