Under the shadow of slavery and a growing prohibition movement in the 1840s, Pete Williams established Almack's — one of the first blackowned and operated bars in New York City. Williams transformed the 19th century speakeasy in Five Points – a neighborhood notorious for its crime and written off as a "slum" – into an immensely popular cultural space. A vivacious nightlife scene thrived within Almack's walls: couples drowned in the syncopated tunes of newly emerging rhythms; city hall politicians sealed deals with darksuited businessmen over moonshine whiskey; brighteyed sailors fixated on the swaying hips and flirtatious gazes of seductively silhouetted women. This vibrant spirit and underground mystique is at the core of 67 Orange Street–its name a
tribute to the address where Almack's last stood; its founder Karl Franz Williams connected to Pete Williams by name and vision. From 19th century Five Points to the new 21st century Harlem, the legacy of 67 Orange Street continues…