The Blind Swine

The Western Illinois Museum is letting the good times roll at the next opening of The Blind Swine Speakeasy. The public is invited on Friday, September 21^st from 4:30 to 7:30 pm to experience what can be described as a cross between an event and exhibit. Most consider the prohibition of alcoholic beverages the defining issue of the 1920s, but history shows that the era’s changes affected manufacturing, agriculture, entertainment, and informed social issues. At The Blind Swine, guests are invited to consider how life was ever changed during the roaring 20s!

Art and music in the 1920s were pushing new boundaries. Art Deco and the avant-garde movement finds its way to America.  As radios become commonplace in people’s homes, introducing the country to dance bands, jazz, blues and even Broadway music for the first time. Their influences can be seen in the movies, serial radio programs, the growing record industry, and even new dance steps.  The era of idealism and excess is seen in the dance club culture and the desire for something new.

Join us as we put lipstick on The Blind Swine for a roaring twenties closing night bash. The old Macomb Motor garage will be the bee’s knees! The WIU Swing Club will be on hand to show guests how to cut a rug, play the avant-garde parlor game, Exquisite Corpse, and watch Mickey Mouse’s screen debut. Music for the evening will be provided by John Vana on saxophone, Whitney Ashe on piano, and Matt Hughes on bass who will play two sets starting at 5:00 pm.

Enter the speakeasy through the museum’s “back door” located on the south side of the building, if you have the password. Find the password on the Western Illinois Museum’s Facebook page. There is a suggested $5 donation at the door, or as they would say in 1920, hit me with an “Abe’s Cabe.” Hy-Vee catering will provide the spirits –for a price.