Henson's Gang in front of the New Opera House with drum referencing KKK
Name/Title
Henson's Gang in front of New Opera House
Entry/Object ID
IMG2024.029.002
Description
Digital image of a photograph from the "Down Memory Lane" section of the Spirit of Jefferson. Photo features Henson's Gang band standing in front of the New Opera House with uniforms and top hats holding instruments. At center, the bass drum says "Henson's Gang /Klean Kut Klassy /Charlestown". This slogan is likely a reference to the Klu Klux Klan. There are groups of men standing at either side. The Opera House's ice cream parlor can be seen in the background, as well as advertisements for upcoming performances and a large banner that says "First National Week/ 'Say it with Music'"
Photograph Details
Type of Photograph
Digital
Subject Person or Organization
Old Opera House
Context
Henson's gang was one iteration of the band formed by Ed Henson, founder of the Opera House in Charles Town. It is unknown to what degree Henson or his bandmembers had any connection with the KKK.
