Michael's
La Crosse
Summary
We have limited information about Michael's bar in La Crosse. A contributor has shared to the Facebook group that Michaels' was the first gay bar opened in La Crosse by Michael Hanson. He relates the following information: In 1966, La Crosse's gays and lesbians became more visible to non-queers thanks to the first gay bar, "Michael's" which operated until 1969 on Third Street South, between King Street and Jay Street.
It was a mixed lesbian and gay bar and was a godsend for community members who would otherwise have to travel to the Twin Cities or Madison.