Saints and Pelicans owner Gayle Benson buys Chris Owens club

NEW ORLEANS (WVUE) - New Orleans Saints and Pelicans owner Gayle Benson purchased a landmark nightclub in the French Quarter from the Estate of Chris Owens.

Benson closed the purchase on the property at 500 Bourbon St. on Aug. 19.

The approximate 20,000 square-foot building includes the Chris Owens club, three leased commercial spaces on the ground floor, Chris Owens’ two-story private residence and small residential units on the 2nd and 3rd floors that had previously been rented on a month-to-month basis and are now vacant, according to Saints spokesman Greg Bensel.

“I am humbled to have the opportunity to own a property that Chris worked so hard for over 50 years to make into a landmark building on Bourbon St. Our plan is to collaborate with best-in-market real estate professionals, architects and designers to put together its renovation and leasing plan over the coming months,” Benson said. “Chris and I were good friends for many years and we shared a deep love of the City of New Orleans. I plan for this building to be something that moves the French Quarter in a positive direction, which is something she always tried to do.”

Owens passed away Tuesday (April 5) from a heart attack at the age of 89. Following the news of Owens’ death, people began to flock to the corner club at 500 Bourbon Street bearing her name, where Owens was a staple for more than six decades.

Related Links:

Queen of Bourbon St. entertainment, Chris Owens, has died

Friends remember entertainer Chris Owens as New Orleans icon is laid to rest

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