Lincoln Beach amusement park, Segregated amusement park in New Orleans, United States
Lincoln Beach was an amusement park situated along Lake Pontchartrain in eastern New Orleans with swimming pools, a ferris wheel, a rollercoaster, and carnival games spread across the grounds. The facility offered multiple rides and attractions that provided recreation for visitors of all ages.
The park was established in 1939 following a land donation and significant capital investment, creating a new recreational destination. It closed in 1965 when legal changes eliminated segregation and integrated public spaces reduced support for separate facilities.
The park served as a gathering place for the African American community, hosting live music performances and social events that drew visitors from across the region. These gatherings gave people a rare public space where they could enjoy entertainment and spend time together freely.
The park was located in a remote area outside the main city, requiring visitors to travel a considerable distance to reach it. A car was the most practical way to arrive, as public transportation connections to the site were limited.
The park was one of the few venues where prominent African American musicians could regularly perform, making it an important launching point for musical talent of the era. These performances drew crowds who appreciated artists that mainstream venues often refused to book.
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