DONALDSONVILLE, La. (InvestigateTV) — A historic hall that once provided refuge for Black families and performers during segregation is getting new life through a major restoration project.

True Friends Hall, built in the late 1800s in Donaldsonville, served as a cornerstone of the local Black community for decades. The benevolent society that operated the hall helped families in need and provided a gathering place during an era when Black Americans faced widespread discrimination.

“These organizations supported families. If you had a baby, the house burned down, they would come to the aid. These are men who were carpenters, brickmasons,” Darryl Hambrick, founder of the River Road African American Museum, said.

Musical heritage and the Chitlin’ Circuit

During segregation, True Friends Hall was part of the Chitlin’ Circuit, a network of performance venues across the United States for Black musicians, comedians and other entertainers. The circuit helped shape American music by creating new genres such as blues, jazz and rock and roll, producing artists such as Aretha Franklin, B.B. King and Little Richard.

The hall welcomed major performers including New Orleans legends Fats Domino and Irma Thomas, as well as megastars like James Brown. Because African Americans were not allowed at certain venues, True Friends Hall served as a welcoming refuge for Black performers.

“Making their way into New Orleans, you couldn’t stay in hotels, restaurants. Here at True Friends, you got a meal, you got a place to stay, and you had a great time,” Hambrick said.

Community gathering place

Beyond music, True Friends Hall was where Black families and friends could gather and celebrate.

“This was the pulse of the community. You could come here and get help, you could come here and have a great time,” Hambrick said.

Restoration plans

The hall closed in the 1980s and deteriorated over the years. After receiving $1.3 million from the state of Louisiana, Hambrick and the River Road African American Museum are working on a major restoration project.

Plans call for a performance stage, offices and space for a music academy.

The project needs additional funding beyond the state allocation.

Hambrick expects the restoration timeline to be much shorter than the 26 years it took to establish the museum, which involved moving and restoring a Rosenwald school.

“I hope it doesn’t take 26 years to do this building because I don’t have 26 years,” he said.

True Friends Hall is believed to be the largest and oldest existing benevolent hall still standing in Louisiana.

See the full story by Thanh Truong here.

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