Stork Club

Famous nightclub in New York City

Stork Club logo

The Stork Club was a prominent nightclub in New York City from 1929 to 1965. It was a symbol of café society and was frequented by celebrities, socialites, and the elite of the time. The club was owned by Sherman Billingsley, a former bootlegger who turned the club into one of the most famous nightspots in the world.

History

The Stork Club was founded in 1929 by Sherman Billingsley, who had previously been involved in the bootlegging business during Prohibition. The club originally opened at 132 West 58th Street, but it moved to 3 East 53rd Street in 1934, where it remained until its closure in 1965.

Prohibition Era

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Stork Club speakeasy membership card, 1932-1933

During the Prohibition era, the Stork Club operated as a speakeasy, a secret bar where alcohol was served illegally. The club quickly gained a reputation for its exclusivity and the high-profile clientele it attracted. Billingsley used his connections to ensure that the club was well-stocked with liquor, despite the legal restrictions of the time.

Post-Prohibition Success

After the repeal of Prohibition in 1933, the Stork Club continued to thrive. It became a hub for celebrities, politicians, and other influential figures. The club was known for its luxurious decor, impeccable service, and the ability to maintain privacy for its guests.

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Stork Club dining room, 1933

Café Society

The Stork Club was a central part of New York's café society, a term used to describe the socialites and celebrities who frequented nightclubs and restaurants in the city. The club's "Cub Room" was particularly famous, as it was reserved for the most important guests. Billingsley was known for his strict control over the guest list, ensuring that only the most prestigious individuals were allowed entry.

Notable Events and Guests

The Stork Club hosted numerous notable events and was a favorite spot for many celebrities.

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Sherman Billingsley at Stork Club, 1951

Celebrity Patrons

The club was frequented by a wide array of famous personalities, including Frank Sinatra, Marilyn Monroe, Ernest Hemingway, and J. Edgar Hoover. It was also a popular spot for Hollywood stars visiting New York.

Controversies

In 1951, the club was involved in a racial discrimination controversy when Josephine Baker, a famous African American entertainer, accused the club of denying her service. This incident led to a publicized dispute with columnist Walter Winchell, who was a regular at the club.

Stork Club pickets, 1951

Decline and Closure

By the late 1950s, the Stork Club began to decline in popularity. Changes in social norms and the rise of new entertainment venues contributed to its waning influence. The club finally closed its doors in 1965, marking the end of an era in New York nightlife.

Legacy

The Stork Club remains a symbol of the glamour and exclusivity of mid-20th century New York. It has been referenced in numerous films, books, and television shows, cementing its place in popular culture.

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Stork Club entertainers

Related Pages

• Café society
• Sherman Billingsley
• Prohibition in the United States
• New York City nightlife