Jack Johnson — Cafe de Champion

In 1912, the first Black heavyweight champion of the world opened his own nightclub at 41 W. 31st Street — the Cafe de Champion, a bold, integrated “black-and-tan” club that scandalized as much as it dazzled.

It didn’t last the year, but for one electric season, Jack Johnson ran his own stage on his own terms.

Quick Facts

Q: Who was Jack Johnson?
A: The first Black heavyweight boxing champion of the world, a title he held from 1908 to 1915.

Q: What was the Cafe de Champion?
A: A nightclub Johnson opened in 1912 at 41 W. 31st Street in Chicago — an integrated “black-and-tan” club, rare for its era.

Q: How long did it last?
A: Less than a year, but it made history as one of Chicago's boldest early integrated venues.