1100 South Clinton Avenue, The Burg

1100 South Clinton Avenue, The Burg
Once The Bijou Theatre.....and More.

SJBill wrote...
The theater closed in the mid fifties, if I'm not
mistaken. I think I recall seeing "The Jolsen Story"
and "On The Waterfront" Another business operated in
this building. The side door had a small sign over
it that said "POOL." This lead down to the basement
and the Bijou Pool Hall. "The Bije" was not a family
place. A few greats and many no-so-greats played
Straight Pool, Nine Ball, Six ball and Snooker.
The air was smokey from cigarettes. The lamps were
hung low over the tables, and if you touched them
with your cues,a cloud of smoke dust would rain down.
You rented a table by the hour, and most were in
good condition. "Red Face" and Joe Russo owned the
room. Local legends. When they were shooting
everbody remained silent. Pool. A good game. It
teaches character and respect.

Ralph Lucarella adds...
This is Ralph Lucarella again. My brother had a
radio shop across from the Bijou in the 40s. I
remember the pool hall. Down the street was Urken
& Cohns dept store and Browns Novelty. Brownie put
the pinball machines in our Hamilton Bowling Lanes.
Lavinthals shoe store was also across the street.

Bob Reck adds...
Remember going thru the side door, downstairs to
play pool. Mainly straight pool and 8 ball.