Uncovering the Upper West Side's LGBTQ+ History: A Bar Story
New York City, a vibrant tapestry woven with threads of history, culture, and community, holds countless untold stories. Among these, the narratives of its LGBTQ+ spaces often fade into the background, yet they are crucial to understanding the city's evolution. Let's journey back in time to explore the Upper West Side's connection to the LGBTQ+ community through the lens of its bars, examining not just the businesses themselves, but also the challenges and triumphs they represented.
A Glimpse into the Past: The Fifth Avenue Bar and the Dorilton Apartments
Our story begins with a physical location, a building that once housed the Fifth Avenue Bar. Though specific details about its origins are sparse, it stood as one of the larger establishments in the neighborhood, a significant detail suggesting it had a sizable impact on the community.
The source material then shifts focus to the Dorilton Apartments, specifically the Stanwood Cafeteria and Bar. Opening around an unspecified year, the bar did a significant percentage of its business through drink sales.
The owners of this establishment faced legal challenges. However, a pivotal court decision, "Stanwood United v.", set a precedent. The ruling dictated that the State Liquor Authority (SLA) could only take action against a bar catering to a gay clientele if the individuals present engaged in actual disorderly conduct, and if the establishment had explicitly permitted it. This was a landmark victory, but in practice, the SLA and police forces often ignored this.
The Lingering Shadows of Prejudice
Despite this legal victory, the reality on the ground tells a more complex story. Harassment of establishments that welcomed the LGBTQ+ community continued for another two decades. This starkly illustrates the gap between legal advancements and the lived experiences of those within the community.
The Dorilton Apartments, and its bar, eventually closed, adding another chapter to the ongoing story of urban change and the shifting landscape of community spaces.
Beyond the Bar: Exploring NYC's Queer Scene Today
The spirit of the Upper West Side's queer history lives on in the modern scene. Whether you're looking for a lively dance club, a cozy dive bar, or a place to catch a drag show, NYC offers a diverse range of LGBTQ+ venues. The city is filled with options, from the historic Stonewall Inn to trendy establishments.
Finding Your Perfect Spot
Finding the right queer bar or club in NYC is a personalized journey! The best queer spaces are often the ones that provide the experience you are looking for, whether that means cheap drinks and friendly faces, or the high-energy atmosphere of a crowded dance floor.
If you're looking to stay up-to-date on all of the best options, sign up for newsletters that help you explore the city without breaking the bank.
Takeaways: Remembering the Past, Celebrating the Present
The story of the Fifth Avenue Bar and the Stanwood Cafeteria and Bar serves as a vital reminder. Their existence underscores the role these spaces played in providing community, support, and a sense of belonging for LGBTQ+ individuals during a time when such spaces were often under threat.
- Remember the Past: Acknowledge the struggles and triumphs of the pioneers who built these spaces.
- Celebrate the Present: Embrace the vibrant diversity of today's LGBTQ+ venues.
- Support LGBTQ+ Businesses: Help them thrive.
The Upper West Side's history, like that of all of New York City, continues to evolve. By understanding its past, we can better appreciate the present and build a more inclusive future. So, raise a glass – to the memory of the Fifth Avenue Bar, to the community that found refuge within the Stanwood Cafeteria and Bar, and to the enduring spirit of the LGBTQ+ community that continues to shape the vibrant soul of New York City.