For sale: Historic music venue 100 Men Hall

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The 100 Men Hall is up for sale.

Owners Kerrie and Jessie Loya, who saved and restored the historic building at 303 Union Street, are ready to move on after more than a decade.

“We’re so proud of what Bay St. Louis has accomplished after Katrina,” said Kerrie. “We love it here but it’s time for us to tackle whatever the next challenge is that awaits.”

Kerrie, a self described gypsy at heart, said, “When we moved here 11 years ago, never in a million years did we think we’d stay, but the storm changed our time frame.”

National Trust for Historic Preservation photo.

National Trust for Historic Preservation photo.

The hall, where Etta James, Ike and Tina Turner and Irma Thomas have performed, was put on the market a couple of weeks ago with a sale price of $819,000. It was built in 1922, has 4,500 square feet and two bedrooms and three bathrooms. John McDonald Realty is handling the sale.

“We’ve gotten some bites,” Kerrie said. The ideal new owner will bring opportunities for 100 Men Hall. Kerrie hopes the venue will “have a more prominent place on the national and international stage. There aren’t a lot of buildings like this left. We hope it’s positive for the non profit 100 Men Hall Foundation, the town and us. I think it’s going to be exciting.”

Victoria Langlinais, president of the board of 100 Men DBA Hall, said, “I am really looking forward to the future and what it has in store for our organization. The only unknown here is who will own the property once it is sold. The board has been very receptive to the potential change and we embrace that change is good. We have several ideas and options for how we can continue our mission of preserving and promoting the rich cultural and musical history of the 100 Men Hall!  I don’t want to reveal anything – as it’s too soon to tell which direction we’ll go – but just know that wonderful things will continue to be produced by our amazing Board.”

After the sale, the Loyas plan to move to St. Croix, a Caribbean island with plenty of old structures in need of rehabilitation and lots of “kindred spirits,” Kerrie said. “It’s going to be an adventure.”

Meanwhile, the foundation is still booking acts at the Hall. Marcia Ball is set to play on Oct. 17. Tickets are $30.

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