Prohibition and Speakeasies, located at 173 First Ave, Manhattan, New York, United States, is a place that echoes the spirit of the Roaring Twenties. This establishment captures the essence of the Prohibition era, a time when the United States banned the manufacture, sale, and transportation of alcohol from 1920 to 1933.
Prohibition Era Facts
- The Prohibition era was initiated by the 18th Amendment and enforced by the Volstead Act.
- Despite the ban, alcohol consumption didn't completely cease. Instead, it went underground, giving rise to speakeasies.
- Speakeasies were secret bars that required a password for entry. They often operated behind unassuming fronts like soda shops or cafes.
173 First Ave: A Slice of History
- Located in the East Village, an area known for its vibrant nightlife, this address has a storied past that reflects the eclectic culture of Manhattan.
- The building itself dates back to the early 20th century, making it a perfect setting for a modern-day speakeasy.
Trivia and Hidden Facts
- The term "speakeasy" comes from patrons having to "speak easy" so as not to alert the authorities.
- Many speakeasies were owned by organized crime figures, including the infamous Al Capone.
- Jazz music flourished in speakeasies, giving rise to the Jazz Age. Famed musicians like Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington often played in these hidden venues.
Prohibition and Speakeasies Today
- This modern speakeasy at 173 First Ave aims to recreate the clandestine atmosphere of its historical predecessors.
- The decor often includes vintage furnishings, dim lighting, and secretive entrances to enhance the experience.
- The cocktail menu is a nod to the inventive spirit of the era, featuring drinks that were popular during Prohibition, like the Bee's Knees and the Sidecar.
Hidden Gems
- Some speakeasies had escape routes to evade police raids. While the modern version at 173 First Ave doesn't need such measures, it does have hidden nooks and crannies that add to its mystique.
- The bartenders often double as historians, ready to share tales of Prohibition-era exploits and the origins of classic cocktails.
Cultural Impact
- The allure of speakeasies has endured, inspiring countless books and movies. Notable mentions include F. Scott Fitzgerald’s "The Great Gatsby" and the HBO series Boardwalk Empire.
- The resurgence of speakeasies reflects a broader trend of nostalgia for bygone eras, where people seek to relive a piece of history.
In essence, "Prohibition and Speakeasies" at 173 First Ave is not just a bar; it's a time machine that transports its patrons back to a period of American history defined by its complexity, creativity, and clandestine charm.