Turas at The Blind Swine

The Western Illinois Museum “quietly” announces the return of The Blind Swine Speakeasy. The museum’s raw space, once used as a garage, will be open for an authentic 1920s era speakeasy experience. Held the first and third Fridays from June 7^th through October 4^th, from 4:30 to 7:30 pm. Each event will have a different theme related to the era. 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 issues leading to prohibition in 1920 illustrate the social and political movements of the time. Concern for the growing immigrant population was one of those issues.  At The Blind Swine, we celebrate the culturally rich music of Irish immigrants as we welcome musical guest Turas. The repertoire of Irish and Celtic music handed down from generation to generation with its exuberant sounds and heartfelt lyrics became part of a new life in America. So sit back, draw yourself a pint, and join us in the journey.

Turas is a six-piece band that includes Mike Bergstrom on vocals, bouzouki, and guitar; Anne Marie Brinton on vocals, guitar, and percussion; Jeff Calhoun on vocals, banjo, mandolin, and guitar; Lauri Gannon on whistle, bodhran, accordion, and stomp board; and Rose Fahey Wright on vocals, flute, the whistle, and percussion.

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.