Everyone knew Fannie Mae Duncan – and they knew that “everybody was welcome” at her Cotton Club on West Colorado Avenue in downtown Colorado Springs.

Despite the Colorado Civil Rights Act banning discrimination based on race, many restaurants and bars refused to serve Black patrons. Or, like “George’s Place” on South Tejon Street, made Blacks come to the back door. Duncan stood up to Police Chief “Dad” Bruce when he told her not to “run” an integrated club. Instead, she did things her own way – and by doing so, became a legend.

 Patrons flocked to the Cotton Club to enjoy the best entertainment in town including legendary musicians such as Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Lionel Hampton, and Etta James. When Black entertainers or tourists traveling through Colorado Springs were denied accommodations at local hotels, Duncan purchased the Victorian mansion of Dr. James A. Hart. Saving the historic home from demolition, she had it moved to 615 North Corona Street and operated as a boarding house.

 While her Cotton Club story is legendary, less well known was her philanthropy. As one of the key founders of the 400 Club, an organization that provided for those in need regardless of race or religion, Duncan invited none other than the dazzling Mahalia Jackson to perform a benefit concert with proceeds dedicated to the purchase of the city’s first iron lung for the treatment of patients with polio. 

This exhibit features artifacts and collectibles from Fannie Mae Duncan’s home and business to highlight her extraordinary and unforgettable life and legacy.