From Chances to Cheer Up Charlie’s: 900 Red River’s LGBTQ+ History
BY DASH HARRIS, LGBTQ+ HERITAGE INTERN
900 Red River Street, currently home to Cheer Up Charlie’s (Photo: Holly Dirks)
Nestled within the vibrant Red River Cultural District in Austin, Texas, the address at 900 Red River Street holds a rich tapestry of LGBTQ+ history, resilience, and community spirit. This location has witnessed the evolution of spaces that have not only served as gathering spots for the LGBTQ+ community but also as symbols of resilience, inclusion, and celebration. From the pioneering days of Chance's in the 1980s to the present-day struggles and triumphs of Cheer Up Charlie's, this address encapsulates a narrative of cultural evolution, community support, and the enduring spirit of queer spaces.
Take the Coverings off the Windows
From 1982 to 1994, this location was home to Chance's, a pioneering lesbian bar founded by Sandra Dee Martinez. Martinez's journey from bar owner to community leader and volunteer exemplifies the transformative power of inclusive spaces and dedicated activism.
Mrs. Fun at Chances (Photo: Lisa Davis)
'It's important that we open the windows and the whole environment. We were opening up our little secret, opening up a look inside the club.' I thought it was a survival tactic for both the bar and the gay community." - Sandra Dee Martinez, Austin Chronicle 1998}
When Martinez bought the club in 1982, she aimed to create more than just a bar; she envisioned a place where people from all walks of life could gather, socialize, enjoy live music, and support each other. What began as a venture into the business world evolved into a vital community center that welcomed diverse patrons and hosted countless benefits, performances, and gatherings. Chance's, initially established as a bar primarily catering to gay men, underwent a transformative shift under Martinez's leadership in 1986. They “took the coverings off the windows” and opened the bar to the broader LBGTQ+ community. This pivotal moment marked the inclusive ethos that would define Chance's for years to come. It evolved into a welcoming space for a diverse clientele, including lesbians, queer individuals, and allies, fostering a sense of belonging and community that resonated deeply within Austin's LGBTQ+ scene.
Chance's quickly became a symbol of inclusivity and resilience, challenging stereotypes and fostering a sense of belonging for everyone, regardless of sexual orientation or identity. This move not only expanded the club's reach but also solidified its reputation as a welcoming and supportive space for the LGBTQ+ community and beyond.
The impact of Chance's extended far beyond its walls. Martinez's commitment to hosting benefits for various organizations, including the Rape Crisis Center, AIDS Services of Austin, and T.A.R.A.L., highlighted her dedication to social causes and community support. These events not only raised crucial funds but also brought people together, fostering connections and solidarity among diverse groups.
Martinez's journey as a business owner and community leader paved the way for her extensive involvement in volunteerism and activism. Her experiences at Chance's led her to become one of Austin's most active and appreciated volunteers, contributing significantly to local and national recognition for her business and herself. Her involvement with organizations like Project Transitions, where she served on the board of directors, and the Austin Gay and Lesbian International Film Festival (aGLIFF), where she became the Executive Director, further demonstrated her commitment to making a positive impact in various spheres.
Chance's was not just a bar; it was a cultural hub that embraced the arts and music. Martinez's vision transformed the venue into a platform for indie bands and artists, creating a space where creativity thrived alongside activism and social connection. Through its inclusive policies and vibrant programming, Chance's became a symbol of resistance, empowerment, and visibility for the LGBTQ+ community in Austin.
However, like many LGBTQ+ spaces of its time, Chance's faced challenges and changes. In 1994, the era of Chance's came to a close, marking the end of an iconic chapter in Austin's LGBTQ+ history. The space transitioned into Club DeVille, reflecting the evolving cultural landscape while retaining elements of its queer heritage.
Cheer Up Charlie’s Moves In
Fast forward to 2014, and the address at 900 Red River Street witnessed a revival of its LGBTQ+ legacy with the emergence of Cheer Up Charlie's. Cheer Up Charlie’s had been a fixture of Austin’ young queer scene since 2010, when it opened at its original location on East 6th Street. It was a grass-roots effort, opened by a local queer couple, Maggie Lea and Tamara Hoover. For 3 years, it was a hub for music, arts, and queer events. Things became uncertain when the property was purchased by a development firm who declined to renew Cheer Up’s lease. After a challenging search, Lea and Hoover secured a lease at 900 Red River. This reincarnation breathed new life into the space, infusing it with a fresh energy while honoring its roots as a sanctuary for queer expression and community. Cheer Up Charlie's quickly established itself as a vital cornerstone for LGBTQ+ nightlife, events, and cultural celebrations.
Courtesy of CheerUp Charlie’s
Cheer Up Charlie's became more than just a bar; it became a gathering place of hope, acceptance, and resistance. It provided a safe space for LGBTQ+ individuals to express themselves authentically, fostering a sense of unity and solidarity within the community. The venue's commitment to inclusivity, diversity, and social activism further solidified its place as a cherished institution in Austin's LGBTQ+ scene.
However, despite its significance and impact, Cheer Up Charlie's has faced challenges in recent times. As of March 2024, the venue has announced struggles to stay open, citing financial difficulties amidst the ongoing economic climate. In response, the community has rallied together, demonstrating the enduring support and resilience that defines LGBTQ+ spaces in Austin and beyond. Donations, fundraisers, and collective efforts have emerged to preserve Cheer Up Charlie's and ensure its continued presence as a vital cultural and community hub.
The story of 900 Red River Street encapsulates more than just a physical location; it represents a journey of empowerment, visibility, and solidarity within the LGBTQ+ community. From Chance's to Cheer Up Charlie's, each chapter in this site's history speaks to the ongoing quest for acceptance, celebration, and resilience in the face of adversity. As the community stands united in support of Cheer Up Charlie's, it reaffirms the enduring legacy and importance of LGBTQ+ spaces as vital lifelines for connection, expression, and belonging.
Funding for Preservation Austin’s LGBTQ+ Heritage Internship is provided by the City of Austin Planning Department, Historic Preservation Office.