Whiskey River
This week our exploration of dancehalls with filmmaker and folklorist John Sharp takes us to the levee where we explore Whiskey River. From buckets of beer to dancing on the bar one thing is for certain, you're in for a unique experience.
 
The first time you take a Sunday drive to a dance in Henderson, you may wonder what you've gotten yourself into. A long ride south down Henderson Levee Road leads to a wooden sign emblazoned with a red, white, and blue accordion. It beckons you up and over the levee, revealing the Atchafalaya Basin. Local and visitors alike pause to take in the sight of the largest swamp and wetland in the United States�, dotted with houseboats, cypress trees, and birds on the wing. At the foot of the levee sits Angelle's Whiskey River Landing, affectionately known to locals as simply Whiskey River.

Whiskey River

Some of the most popular Cajun and zydeco bands play at Whiskey River regularly, which can bring large crowds. Because it can sometimes take a while to negotiate the throng and get a round of drinks, the bar came up with a great solution-a bucket of ice containing six beers. A bucket of beers is cheaper than buying them individually, saves you time spent in line, and even provides a way to keep your beer cold while you dance. Although Whiskey River doesn't sell food, often a truck selling sausage poboys and hamburgers is parked right outside the front door (ask for the Jack Miller's BBQ sauce)-helping dancers to keep their energy up and for others, something to soak up excess alcohol.

Whiskey River

As the afternoon light begins to fade, the sky takes on muted tones of pink, orange, and blue, creating a picturesque backdrop for the band, which plays in front of a large picture window looking out over the Basin. As daylight dissolves, the band announces it is about to begin the last song of the night. In keeping with Whiskey River tradition, patrons, mostly women, begin to climb up on the back bar for one final dance. The whole room, band included, watches-their eyes glued-as the dancers enjoy the brief attention on the elevated pedestal. The regulars all say their good-byes-knowing they will see each other next week-same time, same place.

Whiskey River







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