Two different "Prologue" locations are listed in a single national Gay Bar Guide in 1970 (which typically references gay-friendly bars or restaurants that were open and reported on during the previous year): a 'Prologue" at 2690 S. 9th Street, and a 'Prologue East' at 1962 N. Prospect Ave. Both have the note "R, PE", so it's dificult to know if there were briefly two locations, if one or both were primarily a restaurant or one just a bar, if it moved after a few months and then closed, or what.

The only local documentation are from the May 1974 issue of "GPU News": an advertisement for the restaurant, at 2690 S. 9th; and the August 1976 issue of the local "GLIB Guide", which lists The Prologue at S. 9th in the "Restaurants" section of its community guide, and describes it as follows: "Straights and discreet gays mix well in turn of century setting."

It's strange for a business to be listed in only a single national guide in 1970, and scarcely referenced in local publications, so it's likely this was primarily a 'straight' restaurant which discretely welcomed gay clientele. So, as always, more information about this business is welcomed from anyone who can contribute it.

Recollections: The following are recollections of others who have been kind enough to submit their personal memories to the webmaster. You are welcome to do the same!

This was a rather small place, but had some fabulous food and entertainment as well. It featured Dawn Koreen at the piano on weekends. Everyone who came there seemed to always know one another. Always a great personality behind the bar. Was quaint and charmingly furnished dining room just to the north end of the bar. I once booked the entire place for a Christmas Party dinner for all of the Marc's Kentucky Fried Chicken management.

Dawn was often referred to as Thumper. LOL She had one foot that kept time, by thumping on the floor. And oh my god, the make up she would wear, tons of it, and her tough cookie manly-like lover Mickey. One day the state came after Jerry for income tax evasion and poof he was gone like the wind. Rumor had it he took off for Seattle.

Gregg F.C.

 

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

 

1970 Bob Damron's Address Book Notes: R (restaurant), PE (pretty elegant) 'Prologue' only listing also has note "cocktail hour"