Victory Grill, Austin, Texas
historic place
In Austin, Travis County, stands the Victory Grill. Johnny Holmes opened this historic place in 1945. It provided a gathering spot for African American soldiers returning from World War II, during a time of segregation. The Victory Grill became a significant stop on the "Chitlin' Circuit," a network of African American music venues. Its stage hosted many notable blues and jazz artists. After desegregation and a fire in 1988, the club closed for a period. Restoration efforts led to its reopening in 1996. The Victory Grill is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It continues to represent a vital part of Austin's African American cultural and musical history.