The April 1973 issue of GPU News advertised the opening of this bar with an ad, "New to Madison! The Back Door", touting "3 levels of entertainment" and listing proprietors Rodney and Jack.

After operating The Back Door for about 6 years, Rodney Scheel would close The Back Door and open Madison's legendary bar of the 1980's and 1990's: Rod's.

Twenty years later, the Back Door was still a fond memory for Rodney: December 1992, the Hotel Washington held a grand re-opening, culminating in a "20th Back Door anniversary party".

More information about this business is welcomed from anyone who can contribute it.