Stop 18 Jack’s Harlem Club

Walking Directions: Stay in the area around the historical plaque for this stop.

Introduction to Stop 18

Archival Photo of Jacks Harlem Club at 72 Congress St. in Saratoga Springs NY — Jacks Harlem Club at 72 Congress St. in the 1940s

Jacks Harlem Club at 72 Congress St. in the 1940s

The Story

Jack’s Harlem Club was one of several lively entertainment venues on Congress Street in the early to mid 20th century. Late night entertainers often included musicians and performers from the Cotton Club in New York City who came to Saratoga Springs in the summer when the famous club in Harlem was closed. Performers included national stars like Duke Ellington and Cab Calloway and celebrities were often sighted in the audience at Jack’s cabaret.

The original building was located at 72 Congress Street which would be somewhere around the block where you are standing.

Listen

Mabel “Biddie” Anthony recounts the excitement of Congress Street in the 30s and 40s and gives us a great description of Jack’s Harlem Club. She was good friends with Hattie and worked in many of the establishments on the street.