In the heart of New York City, where the bright lights of Broadway meet the charming streets of the West Village, lies a legendary bar that has been a cornerstone of the city's literary and artistic scene for over a century. Chumley's, a former speakeasy turned iconic bar, has a rich history that is as fascinating as it is complex. From its humble beginnings as a humble coffee shop to its current status as a beloved institution, Chumley's has played host to some of the most influential figures of the 20th century.
Chumley's was founded in 1922 by Leland Stanford Chumley, a former member of the radical socialist group, the Industrial Workers of the World. Initially, the bar was a coffee shop that catered to the city's burgeoning bohemian community. However, during the Prohibition era, Chumley's began to operate as a speakeasy, attracting a diverse clientele of writers, artists, and musicians.
A Haven for Literary and Artistic Minds
Chumley's quickly became a haven for literary and artistic minds, attracting the likes of F. Scott Fitzgerald, Ernest Hemingway, and Dorothy Parker. These literary giants would often gather at Chumley's to share their work, discuss their ideas, and find inspiration in the bar's convivial atmosphere. The bar's walls were adorned with the works of local artists, and its tables were often filled with the sounds of jazz and laughter.
A List of Famous Patrons
F. Scott Fitzgerald Ernest Hemingway Dorothy Parker Eugene O'Neill John Steinbeck William Faulkner
A Place of Solace During the Prohibition Era
During the Prohibition era, Chumley's became a place of solace for those seeking to escape the strictures of the law. The bar's speakeasy status made it a magnet for those looking to indulge in a drink or two, and its discreet location made it an ideal spot for clandestine meetings and assignations.
How Chumley's Operated as a Speakeasy
Patrons would enter the bar through a nondescript door on Bedford Street A password was required to gain entry to the bar Drinks were served in tea cups to avoid detection by the authorities The bar's windows were painted black to prevent prying eyes
A New Era for Chumley's
In 2007, Chumley's was forced to close its doors due to a wall collapse. However, in 2016, the bar reopened under new ownership, and it has since regained its status as a beloved institution in New York City. Today, Chumley's continues to attract a diverse clientele of writers, artists, and musicians, all of whom come to pay homage to the bar's rich history and to soak up its unique atmosphere.
What to Expect When Visiting Chumley's Today
A menu featuring classic cocktails and pub fare A cozy atmosphere with wooden decor and vintage photographs A clientele of writers, artists, and musicians A chance to sit at the same tables where literary giants once sat
Final Thoughts
Chumley's is more than just a bar – it's a piece of New York City's history. Its walls have witnessed some of the most iconic moments of the 20th century, and its tables have been the gathering place for some of the most influential minds of the past century. Whether you're a literary buff, a history enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique place to grab a drink, Chumley's is a must-visit destination in New York City.
As we finish our tour of Chumley's, we invite you to share your own experiences and stories about this legendary bar. Have you ever visited Chumley's? What was your experience like? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
FAQs:
What is Chumley's?
+Chumley's is a legendary bar in New York City that has been a cornerstone of the city's literary and artistic scene for over a century.
Who founded Chumley's?
+Chumley's was founded in 1922 by Leland Stanford Chumley.
What is Chumley's famous for?
+Chumley's is famous for being a haven for literary and artistic minds, and for being a speakeasy during the Prohibition era.
Gallery of Chumleys New York: A Legendary Bars Rich History
