Birmingham hosting free screening of “Tuxedo Junction: The Almost Lost Story”, July 25
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Making weekend plans? On Friday, July 25, the city of Birmingham is hosting a free screening of Tuxedo Junction: The Almost Lost Story at the HF Enrichment Center in Ensley. Read on to learn more about this free event + why you should attend.
In the early 1900s, Tuxedo Junction was a thriving hub for jazz, blues and nightlife in Ensley
If you live in Birmingham long enough, you’ll eventually hear someone talk about Tuxedo Junction.
Popularized by the Erskine Hawkins tune of the same name—which was famously covered by Glenn Miller—Tuxedo Junction was a popular social hub and entertainment destination for Birmingham’s black community in the 1920s and 1930s.
Located near the intersection of Ensley Avenue and 20th Street in Ensley, Tuxedo Junction was made up of dozens of juke joints, concert halls, dance halls and more. Today, the Belcher-Nixon building at 1726 20th Street Ensley is the only standing structure from the old entertainment district.

To help commemorate the important history of Tuxedo Junction, local filmmakers Katie Rogers and Brandon McCray produced a new documentary titled Tuxedo Junction: The Almost Lost Story.
Synopsis: In the 1920s and 30s, Ensley, Alabama was home to a spot named Tuxedo Junction. It was there that the Black community gathered to dance, eat, shop and listen to the great all-Black jazz bands. Local legend Erskine Hawkins’ song “Tuxedo Junction” paid homage to the venue, and the song was even covered by the famous Glenn Miller Band. Now, the building is in disrepair, the heritage sign marking the site is missing and most locals are unaware of this landmark’s rich history and impact on the history of music in America.
Kick off The Function at the Junction weekend with a special screening of Tuxedo Junction: The Almost Lost Story

To help kick off the 40th annual Function in the Junction festival in Ensley, Birmingham City Councilor Carol Clarke is hosting a free screening of the film at the former Holy Family High School gym.
“Seeing this film in the Tuxedo neighborhood is a great way to honor the historic significance of a place known across the world for a famous swing era song while experiencing the place in today’s context.
Maybe doing so can inspire us all to care a little more for our important heritage sites.”
Carol Clarke, Birmingham City Councilor, District 8
- What: A special screening of Tuxedo Junction: The Almost Lost Story
- When: Friday, July 25 | 6PM – 8PM
- Where: HF Enrichment Center, 2001 19th St Ensley, Birmingham, AL 35218
Have you seen Tuxedo Junction: The Almost Lost Story? Tag us @bhamnow to let us know!