The Gentleman’s Anti-Temperance League at The Blind Swine

Shhhhh… The Blind Swine is open but “speak easy.” The museum’s raw space, once used as a garage, will be open for an authentic 1920s era speakeasy experience.

Guests enter through the museum’s south door, if they have the password, and can enjoy live music and fun activities to learn about local history – all while enjoying a now legal beverage. There is a suggested $5 donation at the door.

The financial prosperity of the 1920s along with advances in technology ushered in new forms of entertainment.  The popularity of movies and radio programs influenced fashions and created celebrities. By 1924 Macomb had three movie houses to meet the growing demand. On August 2^nd, The Blind Swine welcomes musical guests, The Gentleman’s Anti-Temperance League. Much like the radio and movies’ role in bringing new genres to new audiences, this band knows how to craft a tune. Their sound is described as a melting pot of hot jazz, swing, and Latin rhythms brought to a boil by soaring vocals and endless energy. Hailing from Minnesota the band includes Daniel Rosen on rhythm guitar and vocals; Alan Peterson on lead guitar and vocals; Jonathan Halquist on violin and vocals; Peter Whiteman on bass and vocals; and Kellie Reichert on vocals.

The Western Illinois Museum is located at 201 South Lafayette Street, one block south of Macomb’s Courthouse Square. The password can be found on the museum’s Facebook page or by texting “swine” to 309.837.2613. For more information contact the museum at info@wimuseum.org or 309.837.2750.