Key West in Monroe County, Florida — The American South (South Atlantic)
The Speakeasy
Key West Art & Historical Society
The home was purchased by infamous Prohibition Era rum-runner Raul Vasquez in 1920. During a rum-running trip to Cuba, instead of his usual cargo, Raul brought home the elaborately carved balcony balustrade. The rum and wine bottle balcony fretwork was actually a clever advertisement for The Florence Club, Raul's speakeasy located behind the house. When Raul was away, an honor system was in place. According to Raul, "no one ever stole a single bottle."
— Circa 1889 —
Key West Historic Marker
Free Audio Walking Tour
Call: 305•507•0300
Sponsor: The Speakeasy
Erected by The Speakeasy. (Marker Number 19.)
Topics. This historical marker is listed in this topic list: Notable Buildings. A significant historical year for this entry is 1889.
Location. 24° 32.98′ N, 81° 47.887′ W. Marker is in Key West, Florida, in Monroe County. Marker is at the intersection of Duval Street and Amelia Street, on the left when traveling east on Duval Street. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 1115 Duval St, Key West FL 33040, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. La Te Da (within shouting distance of this marker); The Cuban Club (within shouting distance of this marker); Eduardo Gato Cigar Factory (about 500 feet away, measured in a direct line); E.H. Gato Cigar Factory (about 500 feet away); Gatoville (about 600 feet away); Saint Stephen AME Zion Church (about 700 feet away); Semper Fidelis (about 800 feet away); Gato Village Pocket Park (approx. 0.2 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Key West.
Also see . . .
1. Speakeasy Inn. (Submitted on May 7, 2023, by Brandon D Cross of Flagler Beach, Florida.)
2. Key West Art & Historical Society. (Submitted on May 7, 2023, by Brandon D Cross of Flagler Beach, Florida.)
Credits. This page was last revised on May 8, 2023. It was originally submitted on May 7, 2023, by Brandon D Cross of Flagler Beach, Florida. This page has been viewed 61 times since then and 12 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on May 7, 2023, by Brandon D Cross of Flagler Beach, Florida. • Bernard Fisher was the editor who published this page.