| The River Queen |
| Location: | 402 North Water Street |
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Opened: |
late 1960's-early 1970's late-1970s |
| Clientele: |
Male/ drag queen |
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The River Queen bar was one of several gay bars housed in a building known as the Cross Keys Hotel (built in 1853, demolished May 1980). Opened by Al Berry who had run the Rooster bar, the River Queen was rumored at the time to be backed by Chicago mob money. The River Queen had a relatively long life, and ranged from a dance bar to a popular hang-out bar, the bar in which everyone was seen at one point or another. In its later years it was often referred to as a drag bar, although it continued to draw a mixed group.
Recollections: The following are recollections of others who have been kind enough to submit their personal memories to the webmaster. You are welcome to do the same! The River Queen - First gay bar I was ever in. I was surprised to see so many guys, none of whom matched the sissy stereotype. R Chris The River Queen was the premier meeting and dance bar in its day, located on the site of the current Milwaukee Public Market. I don't remember ever seeing any drag queens there, unless you count Milton Berle, whose entourage announced his entrance dramatically and loudly when he walked in. I was gay-bashed twice at the River Queen, once outside by a group of guys in the parking lot (but that's another great story - we won!) and once inside, decked by two guys who were insulting my date. I had a wonderful view of the River Queen's famous crystal chandelier from the floor up! David Dudley was the big butch manager. When the bar closed, loyal patrons grabbed every memento they could, including the barstools (I was given one later as a gift). Maryann G. |
) Closeup of entrance |
Credits: contents, design and arrangement by Don Schwamb.
Last updated: January-2007.
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