Michael Hanson

Michael Hanson, affectionately dubbed "mother" by those who knew him, became a recognizable face in the La Crosse, Wisconsin LGBTQ community throughout the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s. He was out, open, and supported community activities, being one of the few leaders that helped to bring together the many gay and lesbian cliques in town who were divided by social class. Hanson opened and operated at least three 'gay' bars in La Crosse.

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.