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Smalls' Paradise began as a speakeasy and went on to become one of the most prestigious African-American owned Harlem nightclubs. The popular club was known as much for its jazz performers as its rollerskating waiters, who could dance the Charleston while balancing trays. Smalls' drew a mixed race clientele, and was frequented by such luminaries as scholar Alain Locke and poet Countee Cullen.

Writer/photographer Carl Van Vechten also frequented Smalls' until the release of his controversial novel Nigger Heaven. Offended by the novel's depiction of their club and Harlem life in general, the owners of Smalls' banned Van Vechten from entry.

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Harlem Renaissance

Tags:

jazz , nightclub , speakeasy , africanamerican owned , rollerskating waiters , mixed race , alain locke , countee cullen , carl van vechten banned