Before us stretches the historic site of Lincoln Beach. This was more than just a beach. It was a haven.
Lincoln Beach was established in 1939. It was a place for New Orleans’ Black community during the Jim Crow era. Segregation violently prohibited them from other leisure spots.
Samuel Zemurray deeded the land to the city in 1938. The Orleans Levee Board purchased it within a year. They designated it as a swimming area for colored New Orleanians. It opened to the public in 1941.
Imagine the joy of Black families finding relief from the New Orleans summer heat here. Lincoln Beach became a vacation destination during segregation.
In 1955, the Levee Board invested $500,000 in improvements. Lincoln Beach reopened as an amusement playground resort. It was specifically for the Negro community of New Orleans.
Popular performers graced the stage here. Acts like Fats Domino, the Ink Spots and Earl King played here. Can you hear the echoes of music and laughter?
For a time, swimming was prohibited. Lincoln Beach closed in 1964. A court order banning segregated facilities conflicted with its lease. The lease required it to operate as a Negro facility.
Even after its closure, Lincoln Beach remained in people’s hearts. Residents would sneak through the ruins. They came to spend time on the sandy beach.
Today, there’s hope for its revival. The New Orleans for Lincoln Beach Foundation is dedicated to reopening it. They want future generations to create memories here.
Volunteers have been cleaning up the area. They are passionate about its historical significance. They envision it as a sanctuary for the people of New Orleans.
The main swimming pool was named after Nolan McNeal. He was a former slave and minister. McNeal became a leader in social work.
Lincoln Beach offered more than just recreation. It was a place of community. It was a place of pride and joy.
Free rides were given away in Sunbeam Bread packages. Candy wrappers could be exchanged for admission.
The dedication of the new Lincoln Beach was held on May 8, 1954. Governor Robert F. Kennon and Mayor deLesseps Morrison attended. The Booker T. Washington High School band played music.
Lincoln Beach hosted the annual Negro State Fair in 1957. It highlighted education and culture.
Lincoln Beach faced challenges. It never quite reached the level of Pontchartrain Beach. Still, its importance to the Black community was immense.
Today, the city recognizes its historical significance. There is hope to pay tribute to that history. The goal is to salvage as much of the original architecture as possible.
Lincoln Beach’s legacy lives on. It reminds us of a time of segregation and resilience. It stands as a testament to the power of community and the fight for equality.