The Little-Known Story Of Speakeasies In Massachusetts And How They Are Making A Big Comeback
By Kim Falchek|Published February 29, 2024
×
Kim Falchek
Author
Kim Falchek has been exploring the towns, trails, and hidden gems of Massachusetts since her college days in Boston. When not writing, Kim enjoys photography, going on road trips, and spending time at the beach. Kim has previously been a contributing writer for LA Family Travel, Global Munchkins, and Latched Mama. She currently lives in Salem, Massachusetts where she and her family embrace all things Halloween!
A secret knock at the door. A gentle push on a disguised bookcase facade. A hidden entrance through an assuming shop. What do these things all have in common? They all lead to secretive spots where the atmosphere is elusive and the alcohol is plentiful. These hidden establishments, better known as speakeasies, have been making a comeback across the country and are now popping up all over the Bay State. But why did the speakeasy craze begin?
We first saw speakeasies open up in the 1920s during the era of prohibition. In hopes of cutting down on crime and improving public health, the federal government banned the sale of alcohol.
While some citizens swore off the beverage, many searched for alternative ways to consume it. Secluded rooms, underground passages to hidden spots, and basement taverns became popular spaces to illegally drink.
Speakeasies made appearances throughout the country, and many of these could be found in the Boston area. Because they were so well hidden, we do not know the exact location of many of these underground spots.
Rumor has it that the old Dugout bar near Boston University was once a speakeasy. I may or may not have frequented this spot during my time as a student at B.U.
Advertisement
J.J. Foley’s Cafe in South Boston is another establishment that may have had an illegal past.
The historic restaurant is one of the oldest family-owned restaurants in the state. However, this popular eatery, which first opened in 1909, had a brief stint as a shoe store from 1920-1933. Even though shoes were not a high-selling item, the shop kept turning a profit.
Advertisement
In 1933, the 18th Amendment was repealed and the sale of alcoholic beverages was reinstated. Happy Americans raised their glasses in celebration and new bars and restaurants sprang up across the nation. The once-popular Illicit speakeasies soon became a thing of the past.
Although you can purchase alcohol just about anywhere these days (if you are of age), the speakeasy craze is making a comeback. While social media and advertising campaigns make these clandestine establishments less secretive than in the past, speakeasies such as the Carrie’s Nation Cocktail Club in Beacon Hill are still a lot of fun to visit.
The allure of a secret spot, a fascination with 1920s culture, and the promise of delicious drinks draw people in night after night.
In keeping with the historic nature of the original speakeasies, many of these new hidden gems are housed in dimly lit basements or behind secret curtains. Some have only a small sign or plaque to establish their presence.
Photo by Kimberly Falchek
Speakeasies such as The Cellar at The Bell Inn & Tavern in Peabody are filled with vintage furnishing and nostalgic black-and-white photographs.
There is even an old birdcage elevator that you can sit in!
Photo by Kimberly Falchek
And alcohol isn't the only thing that you can find at a speakeasy. Many places also serve delicious food! In Boston’s Downtown Crossing area, you can even dine at a high-end adult-only steakhouse speakeasy that you access through a wig store.
Have you visited one of Massachusetts’ speakeasies? Which one is your favorite to frequent? For more historical drinking in the city, consider taking a Freedom Trail History Tour Pub Crawl.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
