Leaded Shade

Bar Food | Women

157 S 1st St
Milwaukee, WI 53204

State Region

Southeast WI

Neighborhood

Walkers Point

Year Opened: 1973-12-01
Year Closed: 1977-12-31

Exact Date Opened: Unknown
Exact Date Closed: Unknown

Clientele Primarily Identified As

Lesbian

Logo:

The Leaded Shade, a new type of lesbian bar that rejected the rigid roles of earlier venues, opened in January 1974. Initially, it was a women's bar managed by Sharon Dixon, and known for its vibrant feminist social scene and fiercely loyal customers. In August 1976, the Leaded Shade reopened as a men's bar under the management of popular hairdresser Larry Weber. In 1977, Sue Luke took over the business and welcomed both men and women. The Leaded Shade was owned by Pete and Beverly Nilssen, who sold the business in 1978 to focus on their new space, Lost & Found Disco.