3 feb 1968 & black pearl awards

                                      “It was the drag event of the year.”  

#OTD Saturday 3 February 1968 Kenneth E. White, who performed in drag as Black Pearl, hosted his 2nd Annual Black Pearl Awards and Dance at the Washington Hilton Hotel (1919 Connecticut Avenue, NW). 

White's invitation instructed guests to to dawn their best formal attire. Guests paid 10 dollars for admission and entered the Crystal Ballroom West ready for a night of awards, dancing and drinking. They celebrated from 11:00 pm to 3:00 am.  

It was important to White that the event be held at the Hilton. Other events he produced had been more underground. With this event, he was able to demand that the Hilton change its anti-drag policy. 

--Researched & written by Hannah Byrne

Please comment below. Did you attend the event? Did you know Kenneth E. White? Did you perform in drag? Did you work at the Hilton? You may comment privately here. 

Photo source: Courtesy of Rainbow History Project
For a history and tour of "Drag in DC," click here.