Beating the House


This file appears in: Texas Guinan
Beating the House

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