Gay bars quincy illinois

For the past 36 years, it has been a safe space for the LGBTQ community in a conservative, midwestern city of about 41, people located five hours southwest of Chicago. Last month, the bar held a final night of dancing and entertainment before closing its doors one last time. He looks forward to retirement. Clow recounted that inKaufman was robbed, beaten and left for dead in his own home.

The beating was so bad that it had dislodged his eyeball and left him permanently deaf in one ear. There were several unsolved murders of gay men in the area from around that time, according to Clow. Kaufman would never fully recover from the attack. Clow maintains that his passing in was due to complications from his injuries.

He had been a frequent fixture at the bar sincewhen he first came in on a dare. Merritt understands the decision to close but worries the community may be losing a safe space. Clow said that he might consider opening another gay bar in the future.

Last Call at Irene's Cabaret (2017)

If so, he plans to start just as Irene would -- with a jukebox and karaoke. IE 11 is not supported. For an optimal experience visit our site on another browser. Skip to Content. NBC News Logo. Search Search. Profile My News Sign Out. Sign In Create your free profile. Sections U. Follow NBC News. Latest Stories U. By Brian Troutman.

Tim Merritt left and Robert Clow right Courtesy of Robert Clow Last month, the bar held a final night of dancing and entertainment before closing its doors one last time. Brian Troutman.