A Brief History of The New Orleans Social Aid & Pleasure Club 420

The history of social aid and pleasure clubs in New Orleans begins with organizations of the mid to late 1800s called benevolent societies, which were made up of many different ethnic groups and classes. Initially, they served a function that today has largely been supplanted by insurance companies; namely, to help dues-paying members defray health care costs, funeral expenses, and financial hardships. They also fostered a sense of unity in the community, performed charitable works, and hosted social events. Some scholars trace the roots of these societies back even further, to the initiation associations of West African cultures.

As time marched forward and things changed, these groups slowly transformed from welfare organizations to social clubs. They offered an opportunity for their members to relax and enjoy each others company, as well as indulge in secret traditions and practices ( not to mention the chance to dress up and parade in the streets). They also gave members a chance to indulge in certain vices that were better enjoyed behind closed doors, away from the prying eyes of those who would judge and persecute.

During the early 1920's, as the nation was growing, Storyville was in its prime, and a certain magical herb was gaining notoriety across the country.  The number of social aid and pleasure clubs in New Orleans grew exponentially, at their peak numbering in the hundreds (four hundred and twenty to be exact).

One of the last, and most enduring clubs of the classical era, Club 420 began in the red light districts and shipyards, eventually riding the coattails of jazz music into the rest of the city. Due to the clandestine nature of many of the club's activities, hard facts and documentation are difficult to come by. For example, many cite Louis Armstrong as the first “King 420”, but no proof can be found. Regardless, the club and its illustrious members have left a stamp on NOLA that few can ignore. Ever wonder why, even today, it's said that crews “roll' on parade day?

Lovers of culture that we are, the Herb Import is proud to revive the traditions of the New Orleans Social Aid and Pleasure Club (or Club 420 for short), and carry the torch into the next millennium.

“Smoke good, be good”- NOLA Social Aid & Pleasure Club 420 Motto

Club 420 Basic Info

TO JOIN

Text: 420 to 38628 (normal text rates apply)

PERKS

- 20% off select glass hand and water pipes

- 20% our top 20 rolling papers

- Buy 3 get one free blunt wraps

- Frequent flyer points/ reward system

- Earn free t-shirts, dugouts, pipe bags, and more!

- V.I.P. status at Club 420 events and functions

- Automatically eligible to win monthly raffles and giveaways

LEGAL STUFF

Not valid with any other offers or promotions

Must be 18 or over to join

We reserve the right to revoke membership at anytime for any reason