The Vooswar

Words & photos by Amiyah Golden

Jacksonville’s vast landscape encompasses far more than just Downtown and the Beaches — while notable landmarks remain faint in comparison to all the city has to offer.

History winds and turns throughout the city all the way to the Beaches with establishments holding true to their visions throughout everchanging infrastructure and culture. And it all comes together at VooSwar.

A shining example of what just one person can do to improve the city, The VooSwar is the brainchild of a Beaches pioneer, Earnest Davis (better known as Mr. Earnest or Mr. E.) who wanted to create a space for all walks of life to come together. Building The VooSwar by hand in the 1960s, Davis had more to contend with in making his vision come true than a lack of labor. At the time, the Beaches were separated by skin color and racial tensions were high. Somehow Davis created a place where societal norms did not exist, where sailors of all races and backgrounds came together to eat, drink and laugh.

This sentiment holds strong today with VooSwar still upholding the values of the late Mr. Earnest as a gathering place for all.

You may have frequented the VooSwar back in the day like my grandparents or you’ve never even heard of the beacon, but I compose this to acquaint you with the building on 51 Robert Street. Holding true to serving guests good food and drinks, VooSwar has also made headway keeping up with the times and customer demands, adding live music, comedy night, EDM night, reggae night, Trivia and more – emerging as the space to be.

If you read any of my other articles, you know I like to put the community on game (I’m tired of hearing complaints about nothing to do) but it’s because we tend not to venture to unfamiliar realms – and that’s fair – but it’s also not warranted when you have a slew of events in your backyard to attend.

Such as supporting local comedians – 904 Nika, Alex Sanders, Jack Powell, and many more – who don’t tip-toe on eggshells but give you an unfiltered laugh or local musicians who ooze talent

“Open Mic Night Every Tuesday from 8-10pm is definitely heads and shoulders above the rest in town,” Sean Steele, open mic aficionado, said. “Not just a typical open mic night either, they support local comedians.”

Just want to dance?

A plethora of nights for you to jive to DJ sets of various genres.

All in all, VooSwar has carved long-lasting memories in the minds of patrons and visitors and continues to hold true to the Davis’ mission, which is to foster relationships between everyone!

Make sure you give VooSwar a visit, the next time you complain about having nothing to do.

Follow their Instagram at @Vooswar for more information.