63 Chester Street: C-Street
In July 1983, Joe McNamara sold theBar to a new owner, Ed Piraino, and it was renamed Chester Street. After a few renovations to the bar's layout, Chester Street, otherwise referred to as C-Street, re-opened in 1985 as a dance club.
This two-page story from The Daily Illini showcases C-Street's 1985 Valentine's Day Show, featuring performers Ruby Falls, Stacy Taylor, Jeanna Jones, Mindy, and Greta. In the article, the performers talk about the appealing aspects of performing in drag. Greta states drag is a way to be a popular actress, as well as the quiet life of a writer. As they are putting on their makeup, Greta said they feel in complete control when they are getting into drag, "I want to live life as a whole person first, a sexual role second."
Drag pageants, which had been held in Champaign since at least 1975 in The Balloon Saloon, continued to be part of the LGBTQ bar scene into the 1990s. The first-ever Miss Gay Champaign Pageant, sanctioned by Miss Gay American Pageants, was held at C-Street in 1990. Some performers were local, though others traveled from other Illinois cities to compete.
From the '80s until its close, events such as drag shows, variety shows, competitions, and other get-togethers were hosted at C-Street weekly or more frequently, as it evolved as a space for LGBTQ people to socialize and showcase talent.
63 Chester Street was a monumental LGBTQ bar and club from 1978 until it closed in 2017 due to a fire. In 2021, the building partially collapsed, and the building's remains were flattened shortly after. The lot of 63 Chester Street, as of May 2024, remains a flat, fenced in lot.
Former C Street employees have mobilized to have the site designated as a historic site by the City of Champaign for its contributions to the community. The City of Champaign responded by initiating the creation of a Historical Memorial Designation program in early 2023.
For more information about Chester Street: