Blazing Saddles: More Than Just a New York Gay Bar
Flaming Saddles in New York City is more than just a place to grab a drink; it's an experience. It's a vibrant blend of Americana, gay culture, and a whole lot of energy, all fueled by a fantastic bar staff that knows how to put on a show.
But to truly appreciate its significance, it's important to understand the history of gay bars in general.
A Look Back at Gay Bar History
In decades past, New York City's underground pulsed with the sounds of funk, disco, and punk rock in its many gay bars.
The scene was often raw and authentic, a place where blue-collar workers, dressed in Wranglers or Levis and leather or flannel, could unwind after a long day.
These bars were more than just watering holes; they were community hubs. While definitive documentation is often scarce, stories passed down paint a vivid picture.
One anecdote involves a local barber, Rick Adkisson, recalling his days as a cab driver. He'd frequently take patrons to a spot called The Blue Goose, a popular hangout with a pool table, dance floor, and a young, hip clientele. The Blue Goose, across from the Federal Building, catered to an older crowd and boasted a jukebox filled with 45 rpm records.
The draw? A more generous clientele!
The Evolution and Importance of Gay Bars
These venues have consistently served as safe spaces for the LGBTQ+ community, places where people can express themselves freely and connect with others.
Despite growing acceptance, the historical significance of these bars remains profound. As Kristian Day, a Des Moines-based film producer, explores in his docuseries, Blazing Saddle, gay bars have played a vital role in the journey toward LGBTQ+ acceptance. His work, in part, acknowledges how gay bars have evolved over time.
His documentary is viewed through the eyes of ten men.
Day's research involved delving into archives, a challenging task given the historical stigma associated with LGBTQ+ spaces. He pieced together narratives from newspaper articles and photos, often hampered by the fact that taking pictures in gay bars was once frowned upon.
Flaming Saddles: A Modern Icon
Flaming Saddles continues this legacy.
Conveniently located in the heart of New York City (9th Avenue between 52nd & 53rd Street), it's a destination for both locals and tourists. Known as NYC's #1 Gay Country Western Bar!, it's easily accessible and always buzzing with energy. Staying true to its motto: "Always a double, never a cover."
- High-Energy Atmosphere: Expect dancing on the bar tops and a lively, welcoming vibe.
- Themed Fun: Embrace the Western theme with wooden plank floors and a country music soundtrack.
It's like an all-male Coyote Ugly with Frito pie!
- Bartenders: The bartenders are top-notch dancers and aim to please with their performances.
Even though Blazing Saddle isn't the last of the nation's abundant gay bars, Day chose that name for the docuseries as a way to recognize how gay bars have evolved over time.
The typical patronage may look different than it did in the '80s — that is, no longer dominated by only gay men. Day says the Saddle maintains its identity by withstanding the test of time, and the history it holds.
More Than Just a Bar
Ultimately, places like Flaming Saddles represent resilience and the ongoing fight for equality.
It's a place where you can let loose, be yourself, and be part of a community.