Beating the House
This file appears in: Texas Guinan
Pictured here playing cards outside of federal court, Guinan knew how to work Prohibition enforcement to her advantage. She had her band play the “Prisoner’s Song” every time police carted her away and padlocked one of her clubs. An apparent teetotaler, Guinan claimed she didn’t sell alcohol, and prosecutors could never locate proof she owned the clubs where she emceed. Guinan never served significant time for any of her arrests. Corruption or well-orchestrated drama? You be the judge.
This file appears in: Texas Guinan
Texas Guinan
In Prohibition-era New York City, a dose of Texas flair enlivened the city’s roaring nightlife. Larger than life in personality and style, actress “Texas” Guinan commanded the nightclub circuit with her saucy wit. She sensationalized her life,…