Julius': A Greenwich Village Landmark and the Heart of NYC's Gay History

Nestled at the corner of Waverly Place and West 10th Street in the heart of Greenwich Village, New York City, stands Julius', a tavern steeped in history and overflowing with stories. But this isn't just any bar; it's often called the oldest continuously operating gay bar in the city, a claim backed by decades of serving the LGBTQ+ community and playing a pivotal role in the fight for equality.

More Than Just a Bar: A Timeline of Resilience

The building itself has been a neighborhood fixture since the mid-19th century, first as a grocery store before transforming into a bar. While the exact date of its founding is debated, Julius' began attracting a gay clientele in the 1950s, solidifying its place as a safe haven in a less-accepting era. But its story truly ignites in the 1960s.

The Sip-In: A Bold Act of Defiance

Imagine a time when simply being gay could get you denied service at a bar. That was the reality in New York City until April 21, 1966. On that day, four brave activists, members of the Mattachine Society, staged a "sip-in" at Julius' to challenge the New York State Liquor Authority's (SLA) discriminatory regulations. Accompanied by reporters, they requested service, knowing they would likely be refused. And they were. This act of defiance, small as it seemed, sent shockwaves through the city.

But why was the SLA so invested in policing who could drink at which bar? The regulations, seemingly innocuous, were a key tool in the oppression of the gay community. They effectively denied the right to free assembly, and in a time when gay bars were one of the few places where LGBTQ+ individuals could safely meet, the impact was devastating.

The Sip-In, a carefully planned act of civil disobedience, was designed to highlight these injustices and challenge the status quo. The resulting media coverage and the subsequent investigation by the New York City Commission on Human Rights forced a change in policy, paving the way for a more open and accepting gay bar culture. It was a watershed moment.

From Speakeasy to Safe Space: A History of Community

Even before its association with the gay community, Julius' had a colorful past. During Prohibition, it operated as a popular speakeasy, frequented by jazz and literary icons alongside nearby Village Vanguard and Nick's. Can you imagine the conversations that echoed within those walls?

But its evolution into a gay bar was organic, driven by the need for a safe and welcoming space. Over the decades, Julius' became more than just a place to grab a drink; it became a community hub, a place for connection, celebration, and activism. It was a place where LGBTQ+ individuals could be themselves, free from judgment and fear.

Julius' Today: A Living Landmark

Today, Julius' stands as a testament to the resilience and strength of the LGBTQ+ community. The city officially recognized it as a landmark. The designation helps ensure its preservation and protects the stories it holds within its walls. It's more than just old woodwork with "cheers" inscribed in multiple languages (likely dating back to the post-Prohibition era) or a mysterious portrait believed to be of a mafia girlfriend. It's about the history, the struggles, and the triumphs that have unfolded within those walls.

Walking into Julius' today is like stepping back in time, but it's also a reminder of how far we've come. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, the drinks are stiff, and the history is palpable. It's a place where old-timers and newcomers alike can gather, share stories, and raise a glass to the past, present, and future of the LGBTQ+ community.

Why Julius' Matters: More Than Just a Drink

So, why is Julius' so important? It's more than just a bar; it's a symbol. It's a reminder of the struggles faced by the LGBTQ+ community and the progress that has been made. It's a living monument to the sip-in and the brave activists who challenged injustice. It's a place where history is not just remembered, but lived and celebrated.

Visiting Julius':

• Address: 159 West 10th Street, New York, NY 10014
• Why Go: Experience a piece of LGBTQ+ history, enjoy a classic bar atmosphere, and support a landmark institution.

Next time you're in Greenwich Village, take a detour to Julius'. Raise a glass to those who fought for equality and celebrate the vibrant community that continues to thrive within its walls. It's an experience you won't soon forget.