Caffè Lena is widely recognized as the oldest continuously operating coffeehouse in the United States. It is an internationally renowned cultural center and an American treasure. Opened in 1960, by Lena and Bill Spencer, the café has helped to launch many of America’s best loved songwriters. In the ensuing years, Lena created a legend. The remarkable roster of artists includes Skip James, Mississippi John Hurt, Bob Dylan, Emmylou Harris, Arlo Guthrie, Don McLean, Nanci Griffith, Dave Van Ronk, Odetta, Rev. Gary Davis, Utah Phillips, Ani DiFranco, G.Love, Townes Van Zandt and hundreds upon hundreds of others.
This Ear To The Ground featurette focuses on the history of the Caffe as well as the spirit of community that help to keep it a vital launching pad for aspiring artists to this day.