The Jazz Temple

The club's name was chosen by the owner, Winston E. Willis, to symbolize a devout gathering place dedicated to the icons of the jazz world where these artists would be collectively enjoyed and appreciated.

During its brief history, with frequent headlining appearances by jazz greats such as Miles Davis, John Coltrane, Herbie Hancock, Dizzy Gillespie, and Cannonball Adderley among others, the popular nightspot was more successful than any other similar venue in the region.

Having operated several successful small businesses in nearby areas, he sensed that something was lacking in this upscale college community.

After making a careful assessment and determining what was needed and what would be likely to work, he decided that "high-quality jazz performances at a student-friendly and affordable price" was the answer.

Then, quickly putting his idea into action, he secured a lease on a vacated building, a former Packard automobile showroom, and immediately began remodeling, with careful attention devoted to acoustics.

His friend, local artist, Nelson Stevens, painted large, colorful “coming attraction” signs heralding the Jazz Temple's approaching presence in the University Circle community.

[2] With the support and assistance of his girlfriend, Charlene Hurd, the club offered casual dining, "the best burgers in town, using only freshly ground prime beef, the finest gourmet coffee available, and live jazz every night."

During this period of time, local restaurants in the University Circle and Murray Hill-Little Italy area refused to admit or serve African Americans in their establishments, which came as a great surprise to numerous jazz legends who performed at the Temple.

Charlene was an excellent cook and the large English Tudor home on East Boulevard became the desired location for many jazz legends to enjoy a hot meal, warm hospitality, and stimulating conversation.

Thereafter, months of ominous threats of violence and anonymous phone calls during and after business hours foretold of the coming end.

The threats and other over acts of intimidation continued, e.g., numerous occasions in which “warning” sticks of dynamite were strategically placed around the perimeters of the building with notes.

Winston and Charlene were determined to keep the club open in spite of constant death threats and several minor dynamite explosions that left damages that were reparable, even though costly, such as the one in August 1963.