Back in late March, Project Row Houses were excited to announce their grand reopening of the historic Eldorado Ballroom. This historic venue holds significant cultural value and preserving its rich history is an important part of Project Row Houses’ commitment to the community.
Project Row Houses Executive Director Eureka Gilkey was thrilled to see the finishing touches being put on the ballroom as she toured the space with PRH staff. “Third Ward deserves this revival! I am excited for the community to see what has come to fruition, as we work to preserve and protect historic black spaces, black culture and history.”
Guests stepped back in time to the 1940s and relive the glamour and elegance of Third Ward’s heyday as PRH regifts this historic gem back to the community. Encouraged to dust off their dancing shoes and come dressed to impress, attendees are in for an evening of live music and performances, glitzy catering, and glamorous cocktails.
Gilkey is thankful for the supporters of this historic venue who played key roles in our revitalization efforts. Together, we are honoring the Dupree legacy and restoring the heart and soul of Third Ward.
A Quick History Recap:
Project Row Houses acquired the ballroom in 1999, as a gift from oilman Hub Finkelstein. During that time, the Ballroom served as a retail space, meeting facility, and gathering place for Third Ward residents and African Americans near and far. Utilizing community-driven revitalization efforts to steer the inevitable gentrification in a constructive and inclusive direction, the time came to restore the Ballroom and reclaim it as a cultural, social, and economic hub. By leading and successfully concluding the $9.7M Road Back to The Eldorado Campaign, Project Row Houses has preserved the rich history and culture embodied in one of Houston’s best-loved Black landmarks. The restored cultural gem will now enhance the quality of life and economic vitality for Third Ward and capture a slice of Houston life that deserves to be remembered and carried forward into a new era.
For more information, please contact info@projectrowhouses.org.
Source: Project Row Houses
