The 100 Men Hall is an age-old organization that interprets history, preserves culture, and gathers the community in Bay Saint Louis, Mississippi. Through live music events, innovative programs, and artistic expression, the 100 Men Hall seeks to make this African American landmark accessible to visitors of all ages. At the 100 Men Hall, we are committed to the preservation of the distinct culture found within the community of this geographical area.
- 📍303 Union St. Bay St. Louis, MS 39520
- 📞(415) 336-9543
- ✉️[email protected]
- 🌐100 Men Hall’s Website
- 👍100 Men Hall’s Facebook
- 📷 100 Men Hall’s Instagram
HOURS:
- By Appointment
When Rachel Dangermond bought the historic 100 Men Hall last July, she intended on using it to hold writing workshops in, until she began to truly understand what it is all about and its many layers of history. After being closed for five years, “The Hall’ needed someone dedicated to resurrect it, and that’s just what she did, and is continuing to do, almost a year later.
The 100 Men Hall was started by a group of African American men in 1894 during a time in which “dark forces in society” were working against them. Dangermond explains, “it became, for three generations in this community, an energy center.” Fast-forward to 2019, and “The Hall” is being shared with an even larger community and “continuing to make its history.”
An African American landmark on the Mississippi Blues Trail, The 100 Men Hall is located at the edge of the historic district at 303 Union Street across the tracks from the Train Depot. This non-profit raises “funds to preserve and maintain the hall.” It is available for rental for events, and there are always exciting activities being held, which can be found at thehundredmenhall.com.
The mission of The 100 Men Hall has three parts: the first, is to tell the story of “The Hall” and narrate its history, because it is “very important and unique to this area.” The second is to present live music. “We consider that a sacred act that the hall was built for” Dangermond explains. Music events are held often and always have a sponsor to help. In turn, these events contribute to community events that are always free, one of these being Open Mic Night, which is held on the fourth Thursday of every month.
The last part of the mission is to gather the community. “This hall was built for the African American community, and the African American community is very important to the history and the telling of the history of the hall, and is very important to our mission as well. However, it’s also important that we gather all the community from all different segments and all different areas under one roof.”
Community engagement is vital for the success of “The Hall.” Throughout her time of owning The 100 Men Hall, Rachel has had a lot of support. “I think everybody in this community loves this hall and wants to see it succeed” she says.
The 100 Men Hall is an “ongoing work in progress” which there are big plans for. Looking ahead for Labor Day weekend is “The Hall’s” first annual festival, Booker Fest, with everything being in the theme of James Booker.
For Second Saturday Art Walk on July 13, The 100 Men Hall will be hosting the Frida Fest after party. Alexey Marti, a Cuban percussionist and his Latin band will be playing, there will be Cuban food available for purchase, lots of costumes, and even more fun. The party begins at 9 p.m. and tickets are available in advance on the website, or for $5 more at the door. It is sure to be the “perfect wrap up for a big festival” like Frida Fest! Make sure to support The 100 Men Hall.