Official Site of The State of New Jersey

The Turf Club is individually eligible for listing on the New Jersey and National Registers of Historic Places under Criterion A for Ethnic Heritage-Black and Performing Arts. The building was originally constructed in 1956 as one of a number of music venues on Springwood Avenue on the west side of Asbury Park. Referred to as “Little Harlem” and part of the Chitlin’ Circuit, this area played an active role in a once-thriving music scene. The neighborhood was considered the heart of the Black community, as the eastern side of Asbury Park remained segregated through the mid twentieth century. Throughout its history, the Turf Club attracted a number of musical talents including big names such as Ella Fitzgerald and Duke Ellington. 

In 1970 there was an uprising on Springwood Avenue that was initiated by an encounter between Black teenagers and police. Over seven days there were a number of altercations between law enforcement and the West Side community, and many buildings were either burned or destroyed. The Turf Club survived but was left with major damage. At one point it was the only building that remained on its block. In the 1990’s the building was used as a package good store until fire damaged the building. The roof of the structure was removed in 2004. The interior was cleaned out and the mural on select exterior facades was added c. 2020. In 2022, under the threat of being demolished for new development, the Asbury Park African American Music Project, Inc. purchased the building. The building retains its overall original massing, fenestration pattern, main entrance, and layout.

The 2024 Trust grant will help fund interior and exterior rehabilitation, including roof installation, water drainage, window and door replacement and restoration, masonry repair, and interior utilities and finishes.