2025.0048.0001

This was a double-faced sign, until during installation the museum found a second sign beneath it. The sign functioned for a Cincinnati gay bar from 2007 to 2022 on Walnut Street in Over-the-Rhine. "The lounge served as the second longest operating gay bar/club for 15 years in Cincinnati (until the owner found it time to retire). It was a very significant part of the gay community's history and a safe haven which opened in a time of strong discrimination. For example, after the Orlando Pride shootings the owner insisted on opening up for the principal-not the revenue. While the gay community was reliving the prejudices of their past, Nigel (owner) relieved their anxiety and provided them an opportunity to stand strong together." From a statement of a former worker.

Permanent Collection