This podcast episode features Miami’s Ball & Chain. Within the confines of Little Havana stands an institution that has lived a couple of lives. Within the walls of a building that was constructed in 1930 is an entertainment venue that provides libations, live music and dancing in the heart of the Tamiami Trail.

In its first incarnation, the night spot provided live music and dancing beginning in the 1935. By the late 1940s, the entertainment lineup included live Jazz and burlesque shows. When Henry and Ray Miller bought the establishment in the early 1950s, they began booking well-known black entertainers such as Count Basie and Billie Holliday, and a very talented but troubled white entertainer by the name of Chet Baker.

Miami History Channel: www.miamihistorychannel.com Miami History Blog: www.miami-history.com