Clinton Hall Is One Of Those Legendary Local Places That Everyone Seems To Have A Connection To…

Its history is a bit murky, however. We know it was named in honor of Dewitt Clinton, as it was built on what had been his land, a stone’s throw from his mansion near Maspeth Landing along Newtown Creek.
The earliest newspaper mention that could be found is from 1927, when it was reported that the building had been completely remodeled, indicating that it had been in operation for some time already. The article claimed that it was “considered to be the largest dance hall on Long Island.” Besides the main ballroom, there was mention of “a smaller ballroom, restaurant, bowling alley, pool room, and other attractions.” From the ceiling of the main ballroom hung “a large chandelier, weighing two tons, with 2,000 lights.”

Throughout subsequent decades, Clinton Hall became a center of civic and social activity. Basketball tournaments and boxing matches were held there, as well as band tournaments and veterans, union, civic, and political meetings. Many galas, balls, and fundraisers were also held there by various organizations.
Many a Maspeth resident has heard stories about their parents and grandparents attending weekend dances at Clinton Hall featuring live bands. At one point there were amusement rides and a beer garden in the backyard.

It’s unclear when the hall closed, but a 1975 article featured a photo of it as a sign that Maspeth was in decline. The building had briefly been converted into a disco in the 1980s and then used as a laboratory, art studio, and a variety of other purposes. In 2015, we got a sneak peek inside as a movie was being filmed there. We were surprised to see many of the original features had been left intact and hoped that one day it could be restored to its former glory.

We are excited to report that a restoration is exactly what happened. Earlier this year, Clinton Hall was reopened as a music, dance, and catering hall. It is now called Clinton Hall Palace. It’s located at 56-70 58 Street and is available to rent for special events. It even has valet parking! The venue is owned and operated by Alicia Vaichunas, who is a member of JPCA’s board, as well as her family.

We look forward to making new memories there!