Gaebler’s Black and Gold Inn, 706 Conley Ave

For younger Columbia residents, especially those who did not grow up hearing stories of what used to be, it can be difficult to imagine what once stood in places that one passes by often. This is especially true on campus at Mizzou, where life can feel like its own little bubble.

But, did you know that a row of businesses once stood in the heart of campus directly across the street from the back of Jesse Hall?

One of these businesses, sitting at 706 Conley Ave, was Gaebler’s Black and Gold Inn. Opening in 1931, the Black and Gold Inn was a place where students could go to hear live jazz and dance. Though, if you were dancing, it better be up on the "poop deck" upstairs, as city law prohibited dancing on the main floor of a restaurant. Fred and Olinda Gaebler owned and operated the jelly joint, taking pride in being a desired location for students to unwind, even sometimes having lines of people wrapped around the corner, all waiting to go inside.

After over 20 years of good times at the Inn, the building was sold in the 1950s, becoming the Italian Village Restaurant, and later The Huddle. This row of businesses was demolished for a parking lot, and what would later become the property that Mizzou's alumni center sits on.

Sources: The State Historical Society of Missouri and Missouri Alumnus Magazine.

Photo left is of singer Jane Froman at Gaebler’s Black and Gold Inn, around 1942. Photo courtesy of the State Historical Society of Missouri, Jane Froman Papers Collection, Collection Number C3695.

Images Sources: (1) a page from Missouri Alumnus Magazine; (2) the site where the inn was formerly located, from Google Maps.

CoMo Preservation is devoted to helping homeowners, landlords, and institutions prevent the destruction of historic architecture. Original period styles might be replicated but will forever lack the social history of authentic structures. Preserving historic places and spaces gives people a sense of place and boosts Columbia’s economy. You can get involved by volunteering, signing up for our mailing list, attending an event, becoming a member, or donating.