Churchill’s Beach in Lancaster, Virginia, was a prominent venue on the Chitlin’ Circuit, a network of performance spaces that helped shape the careers of legendary African American artists like James Brown, Etta James, and The Temptations in the 1950s and 60s. These venues, scattered across the Eastern, Southern, and Upper Midwest United States, offered much-needed opportunities for Black entertainers to perform during a time of racial segregation.

The Chitlin’ Circuit not only provided a platform for musical and comedic talents but also played a significant cultural role in the Black community by giving African American performers commercial and cultural recognition. Churchill’s Beach continues to be remembered as an iconic location where these artists made their mark on history.