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What was the significance of McSorley's Old Ale House in New York City in 1937?

In 1937, McSorley's Old Ale House was one of the last "Men Only" pubs in New York City, not admitting women until being legally forced to do so in 1970.

The bar was known for its humble origins as an Irish working-class saloon, offering simple fare like cheese, crackers, and its signature ale for just pennies.

A 1940s profile in The New Yorker magazine helped rediscover and solidify McSorley's place as a historic and iconic establishment in New York City.

The bar's walls were adorned with decades-old artwork, newspaper clippings, and other memorabilia that gave it a unique sense of cultural history and Americana.

McSorley's had been in continuous operation since 1854, when it was founded by Irish immigrant John McSorley, making it the oldest continuously operating saloon in New York City.

The bar was frequented over the years by a diverse clientele that included presidents, residents, and famous authors, contributing to its reputation as a crossroads of New York City culture and history.

In 1937, the bar still adhered to its traditional "Good Ale, Raw Onions, and No Ladies" policy, which was a source of controversy and debate as social norms began to shift.

McSorley's unique atmosphere and no-frills approach to serving beer and food had remained largely unchanged since its founding, preserving a sense of timelessness and authenticity.

The bar's location in Manhattan's East Village, then a working-class neighborhood, added to its reputation as a humble, blue-collar establishment in the heart of the city.

McSorley's was rumored to have operated as a speakeasy during Prohibition, further contributing to its storied past and reputation as a resilient institution.

The bar's simple but enduring menu, featuring just two options – light or dark ale – was a testament to its commitment to tradition and its refusal to cater to changing trends.

The bar's motto, "Be Good or Be Gone," exemplified its no-nonsense attitude and set the tone for the experience of visiting this historic establishment.

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