Dustin J. Williston
neonglass.2
Today's image is titled neonglass.2 and was photographed by Dustin J. Williston.
This photo depicts beams of neon-filtered light shining through the glass brick windows of the Crystal Corner Bar, located on the corner of Willy and Baldwin streets in the heart of the east side. One of Madison's most venerable taverns and small music venues, the precursor to the current bar was originally opened in 1935. The distinctive glass brick door frame and wall panels went in twelve years later under the direction of Florence Koellen, the first female to maintain a liquor license in the city. Isthmus contributor Rich Albertoni describes the foundation of the crystal identity in a history provided by the tavern:
Under the remodel, decorative glass block was installed to frame the tavern's front door. The appearance of light shining through the glass block "like crystal" was the inspiration for the new name. Coughlin's Tavern officially became the Crystal Corner Bar in 1947.
These days, the bar serves as the weekly residence of the Hometown Sweethearts and the monthly home Piccolissimo, with many other shows scheduled at least a few nights a week.
There is a larger version of the photo in the gallery at right.
This is the latest entry of Madison Snaps: photos of Madison-area events and locations. The Isthmus group photo pool is the primary source for Madison Snaps, which are published here with the permission of individual contributors. If you are interested in having your photo eligible for Madison Snaps, please respond to the posting on the Flickr group page, or send a message. There is no compensation for Madison Snaps photos, which are © to the respective photographers.