On view at Atlanta History Center.
Unsung heroes, go-go boots, and a trolley seat for two! Atlanta History Center’s newest cornerstone exhibition weaves Atlanta’s stories and artifacts together to define the narrative for our past, present, and future.
This exhibition shares the stories of individuals of many different backgrounds and perspectives who helped create the Atlanta we know today through artifacts, ephemera, interactive media, recording booths, immersive experiences and dedicated spaces while setting the stage for Meet the Past museum theatre performances. It also examines how the metro area has been shaped by watershed political events and exceptional leaders while covering broad themes including Politics and Policy; Cultural Life; Family and Community; and Urban Growth.
Disco Ball
Backstreet, 1977-2004
The Jungle, 2004-2017
At four feet in diameter, Backstreet nightclub proudly held the largest disco ball in the Southeast. Located at 845 Peachtree Street in Midtown, Backstreet was a 24-hour dance club, bar, cabaret, and entertainment center composed of three levels and 10,000 square feet. First installed over the club’s dance floor in 1977, the iconic disco ball oversaw 27 years of changing dance tunes before Backstreet closed in 2004.
Gift of Vicki Vara, 2017
Backstreet was owned and operated by the Vara family, first by founders Carmine and Janice Vara. They were followed by their children, Vicki, John and Henry, who managed the club for over 20 years.
What'll ya have?
Paper cook’s cap from the Varsity restaurant.
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Story
At four feet in diameter, Backstreet nightclub proudly held the largest disco ball in the Southeast. Located in Midtown, Backstreet was a 24-hour dance club, bar, cabaret, and entertainment center composed of three levels and 10,000 square feet. First installed over the club’s dance floor in 1977, the iconic disco ball oversaw 27 years of changing dance tunes For many in the LGBTQ+ community, the disco ball represents more than the dancing and partying that are often associated with it