The History of the "Greystone Voter's League"

On Friday, while working on gutting the future home of Common Ground, local Algiers resident, Kevin Herridge, stopped by. Turns out, he is very active in the Algiers Historical Society, whose website offers an amazing compendium on the history of the Algiers section of New Orleans.

Mr.Herridge knows so much about the Greystone. He pointed out that the old piano - which had deteriorated quite a bit over the years and which had but one working key by the time we started to dismantle it! - was one that Aaron Neville had played on early in his career. If you visit the website for the AHS, scroll halfway down the page until you reach the section of the walking tour that talks about "501-503 Newton St" - that's the location of the Greystone. Mr. Herridge offers an exhaustive history of this old building. Here is how he begins the tale:

"From the 1950s to 1970s, known as the Greystone Voter’s League, was the place for Rhythm & Blues shows. Such greats as Ray CHARLES, and B. B. KING played here as well as a host of local talent, including “Professor” Longhair, Deacon John, Bobby MARCHAN, and the NEVILLE Brothers. The building’s musical history goes way back. Trombonist Harrison BARNES (1889-1960) lived here from 1919-1925. He was a pupil of Professor James HUMPHREY when he lived on Magnolia Plantation. BARNES played with the Eclipse Brass Band (1906), Henry ALLEN’s Brass Band (1907), Chris KELLY (until 1918), the NOLA Band (1923), and John ROBICHAUX (1924). He recorded with the Zenith Brass Band in 1946 and with “Kid” Thomas in 1951. John LINDSAY (1891-1950) lived at 503 Newton from his birth until 1900, when his family moved to 1019 Verret around the corner. LINDSAY was one of the true giants of Jazz, and started his career in Storyville in 1910, and played through the 1920s with John ROBICHAUX, A. J. PIRON, and “Papa” CELESTIN."

There is a lot more to read about the fascinating history of this building and the surrounding community. Visit the the AHS website to read all about it.

The Greystone has a heritage worth preserving. Bob and the rest of the "gutting team" are grateful to have had a chance to prepare this building for its next chapter, housing a valued community service provider.