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Zydeco loses a landmark as the bon temps roll away
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Post-Standard, Zydeco loses a landmark as the bon temps roll away >>
Hamilton's Place, a zydeco music landmark in Lafayette, La., since 1956 where Grammy winners Clifton Chenier and Rockin' Sidney regularly played, has closed because of dwindling crowds and the owner's health concerns.
The last dance a double bill featuring Geno Delafose and Keith Frank was held Sunday night.
"I've decided to give it up," said owner William Hamilton, 76. "I had open heart surgery five years ago, and I have some more blockage coming. The doctor said it would be best for me to let it go."
Hamilton says investors have approached him about buying the club to move it or turn it into a museum.
Hamilton said within the past decade, increasing band fees and competition from casinos and festivals reduced his packed weekend dances to small, monthly gatherings.
"The bands couldn't bring a crowd, not enough to pay for me to do it," Hamilton said. "The only ones the people come to see are Geno, Keith Frank and (Curley) Taylor. I could n't depend on that. The crowd changed a lot. The older people started going to bingo or the casino."
-News service report 06/21/05
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