Category Archives: 1930s

Jolly Four Park: Essex’s Secret African-American 1930s Nightclub

Posted on February 15, 2012 by atomictv

One of those Essex urban legends that my late mother Jackie Nickel was never able to verify concerned the existence of a secret African-American speakeasy/nightclub/picnic pavilion/swim club off of Back River Neck Road in Essex. There’s the remnants of a … Continue reading →

Posted in 1930s, Deaths, Essex / Middle River, Roadside Attractions, Vices | Tagged , , , | Leave a comment

Like Bluefins from the Bay, Nobles of the Hardshells Survive

Posted on October 10, 2011 by atomictv

By Jackie Nickel (10/28/1982) The day was hot, the beer was cold, and the steamed crabs were large and well-seasoned on an August afternoon in 1935 when the first gathering of the Ancient and Honorable Nobles of the Hardshells took … Continue reading →

Posted in 1930s, 1940s, Baltimore Babylon, Baltimorons, Beer, Crabs, Essex / Middle River, Gayety | Tagged | 1 Comment

Baltimore Countians Irate At Sewerage Plant Odors, 1933

Posted on January 2, 2011 by atomictv

The Baltimore Sun, 9/10/1933 When Southwest Breezes Blow Deep Breathing Is Reported Undesirable And Pleasant Evenings On Porches Impossible. Remedy By Baltimore Urged. “If the people of Essex had no olfactory organs, life along Back river be tolerable. But since … Continue reading →

Posted in 1930s, Dundalk, Essex / Middle River, Roadside Attractions | Tagged , | 1 Comment