UPDATE: Reginald McWilliams Ball Sr., a legendary figure in Lake Charles, passed away in 1983, but his profound impact on the community is being honored today, December 27, 2025. His life and legacy as a pioneering Black entrepreneur and civic leader are being celebrated in a special presentation that underscores his revolutionary contributions during the Jim Crow era.
Ball is renowned for co-founding the first trade school in the South specifically for African-American veterans returning from World War II. He also launched the iconic Ball’s Fried Chick-N, which began as Ball’s Drive Inn Café in the late 1940s. In addition, he was the visionary behind Ball’s Auditorium, which hosted music legends such as Aretha Franklin, James Brown, and the Jackson 5.
Joyce Sonnier, a researcher from the SW LA Genealogical & Historical Library, emphasized his determination:
“He wanted to make a difference here in this city. He wanted to help Lake Charles become a better place.”
Arriving in Lake Charles in 1940 as an insurance salesman, Ball quickly established himself as a community leader. By 1947, he was also known as the operator of an ice cream parlor. Sonnier noted,
“He was on his way to starting his own empire — whether or not he knew it at the time.”
His first major venture, Ball’s Drive Inn Café, became a community staple, famous for its fried chicken. The café’s success led to the opening of Ball’s Fried Chicken No. 2 in 1971, with Ball stating the chicken was “better than this side of heaven.” The family-run business continues to thrive today, making it one of the oldest family-owned restaurants in Lake Charles, now managed by Ball’s descendants.
In 1948, Ball and J.K. Haynes established the Lake Charles Vocational Institute, marking a significant milestone for Black education in the area. The school opened on October 1, 1947, offering courses in various trades and accommodating up to 300 students. This venture not only provided critical skills for veterans but also laid the groundwork for future generations.
Ball’s Auditorium, which evolved from the vocational school, became a vital hub for Black artists during the segregated era. It was a venue where renowned performers like Fats Domino and Otis Redding could legally perform. Sonnier remarked,
“It was a refuge for activists and the youth of the community.”
The auditorium hosted Gospel singers and community events, including March of Dimes benefit dances, solidifying its role in local culture. Ball’s contributions extended beyond business; he opened multiple venues, including Ball’s Hotel and the Rose Room nightclub, and became the first Black member of the Lake Charles Chamber of Commerce in 1969.
His commitment to the community earned him the Civic Man of the Year Award in 1972. Even after his passing, his legacy continues through Ball’s Cajun Foods, still run by his son, Reginald “Reggie” Ball Jr.
The Calcasieu Preservation Society recently commemorated Ball’s influence with a landmark designation for Ball’s Auditorium. “He worked hard to show it doesn’t matter the color of your skin; you can build a dream and succeed,” Sonnier reflected.
As Lake Charles honors Reginald McWilliams Ball Sr., the community is reminded of his enduring impact. His journey inspires future generations to embrace their dreams and strive for greatness. “He is the ‘Man of the City,’” Sonnier concluded, “because he did so much for the city. He wanted to make it great.”
Stay tuned for more updates as Lake Charles continues to celebrate this remarkable legacy.
