Richland County · Marker 40-101
The Big Apple
Corner of Park & Hampton Sts., Columbia
Front inscription
Originally built 1907-1910 as the House of Peace Synagogue and located 100 yards south, this building was sold in 1936 and shortly thereafter became a black nightclub known as the Big Apple. A dance by this name originated here and soon swept the country, inspiring the song, "The Big Apple," which was recorded by Tommy Dorsey's orchestra. "The Big Apple" became a best-selling hit in September of 1937.