A Rich History of Music, Culture, and Community
Club Eaton, established in 1946 during the era of segregation, stands as a vital piece of Eatonville’s cultural and social history. This once-thriving nightclub was part of the legendary Chitlin Circuit, a network of venues where African American performers showcased their talents during a time when they were barred from performing at white establishments. Over the years, Club Eaton became one of Central Florida’s most popular nightspots, drawing audiences from across the region and hosting legendary artists like Duke Ellington, Aretha Franklin, James Brown, BB King, Tina Turner, and The Drifters.
In addition to being a hub for entertainment, the club provided a sense of community and belonging, offering a space where African Americans could come together to enjoy live music, socialize, and celebrate their culture during the years of segregation. The club underwent several name changes—becoming Mr. B’s Club in 1985, later Heroes’ Night Club, and eventually Club Kona—but its significance remained deeply tied to its origins as a cornerstone of African American entertainment.
A Centerpiece of Eatonville’s Legacy
The importance of Club Eaton extends far beyond its walls. The club’s upstairs accommodations provided much-needed lodging for performers who were unable to stay in segregated hotels, making it a key stop for touring musicians on the Chitlin Circuit. From hosting Sam Cooke to Etta James, the venue earned a well-deserved reputation as a beacon of Black culture, entertainment, and resilience.
Though Club Eaton closed its doors in 2008, its history remains a central part of Eatonville’s rich cultural fabric. The club’s role in shaping the community’s identity and providing entertainment during a time of segregation has cemented its status as a historic landmark not only for Eatonville but for Central Florida and beyond.
Restoration and Renewal: Be Part of the Journey
The Eatonville Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) is proud to lead efforts to restore Club Eaton to its former glory. This project aims to revitalize the club as a community hub, preserving its historical significance while reimagining it as a vibrant space for future generations. The restoration of Club Eaton is more than just a building project; it’s a commitment to honoring Eatonville’s legacy and cultural heritage.
We invite the Eatonville community and supporters to follow along with this exciting journey! Share your stories, memories, and photographs to help us ensure that the restoration reflects the deep personal and historical significance Club Eaton holds. Your input will be invaluable as we work to preserve this iconic piece of Eatonville’s history.
Attend the Restoration Visioning Session
Join us for the Club Eaton Historic Restoration Visioning Session on Wednesday, October 30, 2024, from 5:30 PM – 6:45 PM at St. Lawrence AME Church. This is your chance to share your ideas, stories, and input on the future of Club Eaton. For more details and to RSVP, visit townofeatonville.org/clubeaton. If you are unable to attend, there are other ways to get involved.
Get Involved and Stay Informed
● Follow the Restoration: Stay up-to-date with the latest developments on the restoration of Club Eaton by visiting this page regularly. We’ll be posting updates, photos, and progress reports as the project unfolds.
● Share Your Story: Were you part of the Club Eaton legacy? Did you attend events or hear stories passed down from your family? We encourage you to share your memories and photos with us to help bring the restoration to life. Contact us at craexecutivedirector@townofeatonville.org to get involved.
Join us in honoring the past while building the future for this cherished landmark!
