Write a commentThe Roaring Twenties was a time in America’s history when jazz conquered the radio, women gained the right to vote, cinema made its debut on screen, and flappers redefined womanhood.
On Sept. 27, Oswego relived the glorious era by reminding us that once upon a time in the land of the free, alcohol was banned.
That’s right.
According to history.com, the 18th Amendment went into effect in 1920, which banned the sale, manufacture and distribution of intoxicating liquors. Many groups across america, such as the Women’s Christian Temperance Union and Carrie Nation Prohibition Party, believed liquor to be “America’s National Curse.” These groups believed that by banning intoxicating liquors, crime rate would decrease and families would be healthier.
They were wrong.
The Prohibition Era lasted from 1920 to 1933. During that time, the economy suffered from great loss. People were laid off and saloons and breweries closed.
But that didn’t mean that alcohol was not consumed.
That’s when speakeasies thrived.
Bistro 197 held its first speakeasy with great success. The front and back windows of the restaurant were covered with posters that read “Closed. For violation of National Prohibition Act.” Like a traditional speakeasy, the requirements to enter were to know the secret password and enter through the back door.
Music from the era boomed as stations were set up for liquor and beer tasting, as well as a gambling station. 
Stepping into a scene from “The Great Gatsby,” most of the attendees were dressed in their best ‘20s get-ups.
Traditional drinks were served and the dance floor was filled.
Although not everyone can handle alcohol, the event was fun for my friend, Chelsea Flores, and myself. We dressed up in our best flapper outfits, tasted the bistro’s drinks and danced the night away.
Oswego offers such unique events that are rare elsewhere, and this is certainly one of them.
And that’s another reason iHeart Oswego.
