Nelson’s Lounge, a gay bar, opened at 8817 Wade Park Avenue in 1969. Described as a “cocktail lounge of unique beauty and distinction,” Nelson’s Lounge provided a “classy” bar atmosphere geared toward a sophisticated “cosmopolitan clientele.” Nelson’s Lounge contained a “jukebox…a tall candelabrum at the end of the bar,” and a “baby grand piano…in an adjacent room.” Nelson’s frequently featured live local and national jazz, gospel, and blues acts on its main stage. In 1973, Nelson Grimes was murdered outside the bar during a robbery. Nelson’s Lounge closed shortly after Grimes’s death.
Additional information coming soon.
Resources
- Forte, Roland. “At Nelson’s Lounge.” Call and Post. November 21, 1970.
- Forte, Roland. “Nelson’s Comes Alive.” Call and Post. April 12, 1969.
- Forte, Roland. “Owner of Gay Bar Murdered.” Call and Post. November 24, 1973.
- J.E.F. “About the Stars.” Call and Post. September 13, 1969.
- “Murder Suspect Scolds Lawyer, Gains Acquittal.” Plain Dealer. February 9, 1974.
- Williams, June V. “One Woman’s Opinion.” Call and Post. May 31, 1969.