JOLLY BUTCHERS PUBLIC HOUSE, THE

Built in the 18^th century, its most famous landlady was Antoinette Hannent from 1935 to her death in 1976.  Antoinette or Anna as she was known would sing Jazz for the ‘Yanks’ during WW2, some of who were billeted at the establishment. She soon became renowned for her Sophie Tucker growl and double entendre style. Anna was christened ‘Black’ Anna by the servicemen as she rarely wore any other colour. After the war, the Jolly Butchers became the Jazz/Blues music hub of the city and was sometimes so packed Anna lifted the rooms dividing doors off their hinges to make more space. She was known for being hard but fair and if anyone stepped out of line she would use her copper laundry stick to shepherd them out of the door. It should also be noted that a young Albert Cooper launched his career here. The building was converted to offices following its closure in 1989 and is today the home to the Norfolk and Norwich Families’ House part of the Break charity.

SCENES: ‘50s Jazz, Blues, Skiffle / ‘60s & ‘70s Jazz, Blues   

Picture Courtesy of Jonathan Plunkett by George Plunkett