Old Quarter Acoustic Cafe: A Legacy of Music and History
The story of the Old Quarter is one of evolution, passion, and a deep-rooted love for acoustic music. From its early days as a Houston staple to its current presence in the heart of Galveston, the venue has served as a sanctuary for musicians and patrons alike for decades.
The Houston Origins
The journey began in Houston, Texas, where founders Rex Bell and Cecil Slayton established a bar known as the Old Quarter. Located near the intersection of Congress Street and Austin Street, the venue took over the space previously occupied by a speakeasy called The Yellow Cab Club.
Over time, the ownership of the Houston location shifted. After Slayton's departure, Dale Soffar partnered with Bell. By the 1970s, following Bell's move to Nashville, Tennessee, Soffar became the sole owner. This chapter of the venue's history concluded in 1979 when the Houston location officially closed its doors.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]A New Beginning in Galveston
After a hiatus, the spirit of the Old Quarter was revived in 1996. Rex Bell returned to the scene by opening the Old Quarter Acoustic Cafe in the Strand Historic District of Galveston, Texas. This new iteration focused on providing a dedicated space for acoustic performances.
The cafe remained under Bell's leadership until 2016, when health challenges led to his retirement. To ensure the venue's continuity, Bell sold the business to Joel Mora—a former stage musician and longtime patron—and his wife, Angela Mora.
Despite no longer owning the business, Rex Bell remains a beloved figure in the community. Often referred to as the "Old Quarter's patron saint," he continues to visit the cafe, participate in special events, and perform during acoustic open mic shows.
[ไม่มีภาพประกอบ]Key Facts
- Founders: Rex Bell and Cecil Slayton.
- Original Location: Houston, Texas (near Congress and Austin Streets).
- Predecessor: The Yellow Cab Club speakeasy.
- Current Location: Strand Historic District, Galveston, Texas.
- Current Owners: Joel and Angela Mora (acquired in 2016).
- Legacy: Rex Bell continues to perform and attend events as the venue's "patron saint."
Venue Timeline Summary
| Period/Year | Location | Key Event/Ownership |
|---|---|---|
| Early Years | Houston, TX | Founded by Rex Bell and Cecil Slayton; replaced The Yellow Cab Club. |
| 1970s | Houston, TX | Dale Soffar becomes sole owner after Bell moves to Nashville. |
| 1979 | Houston, TX | Houston location closes. |
| 1996 | Galveston, TX | Rex Bell opens Old Quarter Acoustic Cafe in the Strand Historic District. |
| 2016 | Galveston, TX | Sold to Joel and Angela Mora. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where was the original Old Quarter located?
The original Old Quarter was a bar located in Houston, Texas, situated near the corner of Congress Street and Austin Street.
What business existed at the Houston site before the Old Quarter?
The site was previously home to a speakeasy known as The Yellow Cab Club.
When did the Old Quarter Acoustic Cafe open in Galveston?
Rex Bell opened the Galveston location in 1996 within the Strand Historic District.
Who currently owns the Old Quarter Acoustic Cafe?
The cafe is owned by Joel Mora, a former musician and patron, and his wife Angela Mora, who purchased the business in 2016.
What is Rex Bell's current relationship with the cafe?
Although retired, Rex Bell is considered the "patron saint" of the venue; he frequently visits, participates in events, and performs at acoustic open mic shows.