Back in the day (way back), it seems that Bucyrus was a wild little town! During the years of prohibition, we had more than once Speakeasy operating and quite a few brothels so the guys could find a little company.
The one that I included in my speech a few weeks back is located beneath the Crazy Fox Saloon/Weaver Hotel just off the town square. When this was a hopping place, Bucyrus boasted a large tunnel system under the city. These tunnels were used for many things: getting coal into the businesses to use for heat, shuttling money and ice between businesses and the quick get-a-way if needed! At that time the above-ground structure was the Highway Grill, and below was where the liquor flowed. It was quite the popular hangout for many gangsters, most notably Al Capone who would stop by on his trips between Chicago and New York City. His presence was kept very hush-hush, but for those that knew his secret they would realize Al was in town when they would see his private rail car pulled off near the brothels.
The tunnels would get him in an out of the establishment that boasted very thick, brick booths which are still there today. Sometime in the 30's, the place closed down and the tables were taken apart and just thrown here and there is the basement. It fell into great disrepair until is was renovated and re-opened in 2003 as a tourist destination. Everything is just as it was in the 20's with original tables, woodwork and brick booths. Also original is the hand-operated elevator that you can take instead of the stairs if you so desire. Most of the cities tunnels have been filled in, but there are still remnants under the Crazy Fox.
The local theater group has put together a show based on the history of the speakeasy. It is full of song and dance, and of course a special appearance from Al Capone himself! I've been to the show twice and it is a real treat.
You can find information about the Speakeasy and other things to do in town at www,bucyrus.org. For a small town, we do have some interesting things to see!
Well, I'm thinking I'd better head to bed now. I'll be sure and talk to you again real soon!
There is much more to learn about the tunnels of Bucyrus. Some of which are very active.
ReplyDeleteDo you know if there was a tunnel going south to the home with the observatory dome? The tunnel would be south from the town square and parallel. I remember this as a kid.
DeleteI am incredibly interested in your statement and more over the knowledge u apparently hold pertaining to this subject, if i may ask, could u plz contact me plz and give me some insight and wisdom
ReplyDeleteAbout these so called “active tunnels, no matter whats goin on down there i need to know, its eating at me