Vintage Photos Capture the Inside of Early 20th Century Saloons

In the early 20th century, saloons were popular social hubs in the United States, especially in the West and urban areas. They were often places for men to gather, drink, socialize, play cards, and enjoy entertainment like live music or dancing. Many saloons served as informal community centers where business deals and political discussions took place. These establishments were typically characterized by their rustic, dimly lit interiors, with a long bar counter and tables for patrons.

With Prohibition in the 1920s, many saloons were forced to close or transform into speakeasies, operating covertly to continue serving alcohol. These vintage photos show what the inside of saloons looked like in the 1900s and 1910s.