# West Virginia's LGBTQ+ Nightlife: Echoes of History and Glimmers of the Future West Virginia, often recognized for its stunning natural landscapes and rich industrial heritage, also holds a significant, albeit sometimes overlooked, history of LGBTQ+ social spaces. While the state's current landscape of dedicated gay bars might be more subdued than in larger metropolitan areas, understanding its past offers a compelling narrative of community, resilience, and the evolution of queer spaces.

From the storied days of the Grand Palace to the vibrant transformations of establishments like Vice Versa, West Virginia's LGBTQ+ scene has a captivating story to tell. ## The Legacy of the Grand Palace: A Cornerstone of Charleston's Queer Community Charleston, West Virginia's capital city, was once home to a pivotal establishment that served as a cornerstone for its LGBTQ+ community: The Grand Palace.

Originally a grocery store owned by the Summers family, the space underwent a significant transformation in the late 1970s when Lee Summers, following in the footsteps of Abraham Summers, opened it as a gay bar. This was a time when dedicated queer spaces were crucial for social connection and safety, and The Grand Palace quickly became a vibrant hub.

The evolution of the venue mirrored the changing social dynamics of the era. In the late 1970s, Summers invested in the establishment, expanding it and rebranding it as The Grand Palace. This expansion included the addition of a proper stage and dance floor, solidifying its role as a premier entertainment venue for the LGBTQ+ community.

It was a place where individuals could express themselves, find companionship, and experience a sense of belonging that was often scarce in the wider society. However, the late 1980s and early 1990s brought new challenges. As the stigma surrounding gay bars began to lessen, a different crowd started to attend, and unfortunately, the establishment faced issues like drug raids and other disturbances.

These circumstances eventually led Hershel, a successor in managing the business after Abraham's daughter, to close The Grand Palace around 1995. The building remained vacant for a couple of years before being acquired by the Kanawha County Emergency Ambulance Authority through eminent domain in 2004, ultimately leading to its demolition in 2006.

The loss of The Grand Palace marked the end of an era for many in Charleston's LGBTQ+ community, leaving a void that subsequent venues would strive to fill. ## Morgantown's Vibrant Past and Present: Lucy's Place and Blue Moon While Charleston bore witness to the rise and fall of The Grand Palace, Morgantown, home to West Virginia University, has also played a significant role in the state's LGBTQ+ social history.

Today, Morgantown boasts a couple of well-regarded establishments that cater to the queer community. Lucy's Place: Though specific historical details are less documented in the provided sources, Lucy's Place is recognized as a current LGBTQ+-friendly establishment in Morgantown, receiving positive mentions and reviews.

Its presence indicates a continued demand and a welcoming space for the queer community in the college town. Blue Moon: Similarly, Blue Moon is another establishment in Morgantown highlighted for its LGBTQ+ appeal. With a notable number of reviews, it suggests a consistent patronage and a reputation as a go-to spot for queer individuals and allies.

These venues in Morgantown underscore the enduring spirit of LGBTQ+ gathering places in West Virginia, adapting to modern times while maintaining a commitment to community. ## The Class Act to Vice Versa: A Story of Transformation and Resilience Perhaps one of the most compelling narratives in West Virginia's recent LGBTQ+ history comes from the transformation of The Class Act into Vice Versa in Morgantown.

This story is not just about a change of ownership or a new name; it's a testament to the evolution of queer nightlife, the dedication of its community, and the personal journeys of those who made these spaces possible. The Class Act was a significant venue, known for hosting drag shows and fostering a sense of family among its patrons.

It was a place where the famed House of Opulence showcased traditional drag performances with elaborate looks and lip-syncing, while the House of Euphoria pushed boundaries with over-the-top productions, even hosting daytime events - a rarity in typical gay bar settings.

The rivalry between these two houses, both calling The Class Act home, added a dynamic and competitive energy to the venue. It was at The Class Act that many memorable moments occurred, including the first time a play was staged at the bar, a bold move that highlighted the venue's commitment to diverse entertainment.

Tragically, the scene was touched by loss with the passing of Burke, a beloved figure associated with The Class Act family, who died suddenly a year after moving to Orlando. His funeral in West Virginia was a testament to the strong bonds formed within the Class Act community, with the entire family attending.

In 2013, the venue underwent a significant rebirth. Morgan and Yost, who had first met at The Class Act, took over the location. They purchased essential elements like the sound system, bar supplies, and glassware from the previous owner, and the tables and chairs from the landlord.

Their vision was to transform the space into Vice Versa. This undertaking required considerable effort, focusing on crucial improvements like cleanliness, stage enhancements, and flooring updates. Opening night for Vice Versa was a nerve-wracking yet triumphant occasion for Morgan and Yost.

Their hard work paid off, drawing in a new generation of patrons and ushering in a new chapter for the beloved space. For many, like Brittany Thayer, Vice Versa represented one of her first experiences in a dedicated queer space, a formative moment in her understanding of her own identity.

Dimitria, a long-time patron, shared a touching anecdote about the kindness of one of the owners, highlighting the personal connections that make such venues feel like home. The importance of Vice Versa extended beyond just being a bar; it was a sanctuary and a place of celebration.

Drag queens often found acceptance and support there, a contrast to the challenges they might face in finding partners who embraced their drag personas. The bar's resilience was tested during the COVID-19 pandemic. Morgan and Yost, initially considering it a form of retirement during the closures, found their plans interrupted by the global health crisis.

The pandemic forced them to navigate safety protocols, including strict mask mandates and social distancing, for their scheduled reopening on May 15, 2021, demonstrating their commitment to serving their community safely. The story of The Class Act evolving into Vice Versa is a powerful illustration of how LGBTQ+ spaces can adapt, endure, and continue to be vital centers for community connection and self-expression in West Virginia.

## The Broader Landscape: Babylon Nightclub, P Town, and Cavo Nightclub While specific details about Babylon Nightclub, P Town, and Cavo Nightclub are limited in the provided source material, their mention suggests the presence of other establishments that have catered to or been associated with the LGBTQ+ community in West Virginia.

The existence of these names, even without extensive historical context, hints at a broader, albeit perhaps more fragmented, network of queer-friendly spaces throughout the state's history. ## Finding Community in West Virginia Today While dedicated gay bars might be fewer in number compared to previous decades or larger states, West Virginia's LGBTQ+ community continues to thrive.

Modern queer life often exists within a spectrum of spaces: LGBTQ+-Friendly Bars and Restaurants: Many establishments across the state, beyond those explicitly marketed as gay bars, foster inclusive environments where LGBTQ+ individuals feel welcome and safe. Community Centers and Organizations: Local LGBTQ+ centers and advocacy groups play a crucial role in providing resources, support, and social opportunities.

University Groups: Particularly in college towns like Morgantown, university LGBTQ+ organizations offer vibrant spaces for younger queer individuals to connect and engage. Online Communities: As in many places, online forums and social media groups serve as vital connectors for West Virginia's LGBTQ+ population, allowing for shared experiences and mutual support.

The journey of LGBTQ+ spaces in West Virginia is a rich tapestry woven with history, personal stories, and an unwavering spirit of community. From the foundational role of The Grand Palace to the ongoing legacy of venues like Vice Versa and the current presence of welcoming spots in cities like Morgantown, these spaces represent more than just places to socialize.

They are testaments to resilience, identity, and the enduring human need for connection and belonging. As West Virginia continues to evolve, so too will its queer landscapes, carrying forward the lessons and memories of its past while embracing the promise of an inclusive future.