We have limited information about Michael's bar in La Crosse. A contributor has shared to the Facebook group that Michaels' was the first gay bar opened in La Crosse by Michael Hanson. He relates the following information:

In 1966, La Crosse's gays and lesbians became more visible to non-queers thanks to the first gay bar, "Michael's" which operated until 1969 on Third Street South, between King Street and Jay Street. It was a mixed lesbian and gay bar and was a godsend for community members who would otherwise have to travel to the Twin Cities or Madison.

Its owner, Michael, opened other gay bars: first "The Red Lion" on 120 Third Street, which he operated from 1970 to 1976 and primarily attracted working-class women and college students. Hanson then sold the property to two other gay men, who kept it a gay and lesbian bar from 1976 to 1981.

Hanson invested in a third property, "Mother's", which he ran from 1978 until 1982. "Mother's" was a small but popular joint, and on Saturday nights its dance floor accommodated sweaty crowds of nearly 100 who danced to disco music. It was located on 223 Pearl Street, around the corner from "The Red Lion."

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Hanson, affectionately dubbed "mother," became a recognizable face in the community. He was out, open, and supported community activities, being one of the few leaders that helped to bring together the many gay and lesbian cliques in town who were divided by social class.

While Michael's bar was listed in just a single national Gay Bar Guides in 1973, we have been unable to locate it listed in any Wisconsin LGBT media, or any advertisements or photos.

More information about this business is welcomed from anyone who can contribute it.

Listings in early "Gay Guides": (For more information on the Guides, click here.)

1973 Guild Guide   Title pg   Editors note   Coding system