In 1920, the law said “no.” Oshkosh said pour another.
Behind unmarked doors and basement staircases, speakeasies thrived, bootleggers moved fast, and wildcat breweries kept the city wet. Prohibition didn’t stop Oshkosh — it pushed it underground.
Step inside for an evening with historian Lee Reiherzer as he uncovers the hidden bars, secret operations, and rebellious spirit that refused to go dry.
Tuesday, April 7, 2026
Doors open & basement speakeasy pours at 6 PM
Talk begins at 7 PM
Venue 404 | 404 N Main St, Oshkosh
About 1 hour
FREE
No real password required — but those who know their Oshkosh history might ask for “Fox River ice.”
Presented by the Winnebago County Historical Society, Venue 404, and Lee Reiherzer.
Come early. Slip downstairs. Raise a glass to the past.

