News Summary
A new speakeasy named Elisie’s has opened in Rock Hill, offering a unique drinking experience while honoring the city’s civil rights history. Situated at the former McCrory’s Five and Dime, where the Friendship Nine were jailed after a sit-in in 1961, Elisie’s promotes an intimate atmosphere with no loud music and a casual dress code. Guests access the bar through a discreet storefront, requiring a daily passcode. This establishment serves as both a modern social spot and a reminder of the significant civil rights activism of the past.
Rock Hill, SC – A hidden speakeasy named Elisie’s has opened its doors in Rock Hill, providing a unique drinking experience while paying homage to the city’s civil rights legacy. Located at 135 E. Main St, the establishment operates within a historic building that previously housed McCrory’s Five and Dime, the site where nine Black men known as the Friendship Nine were jailed in 1961 after staging a sit-in to protest racial segregation at local lunch counters. The actions of the Friendship Nine ignited the ‘Jail, No Bail’ protest movement and are now recognized as a significant event along the U.S. Civil Rights Trail.
The entrance to Elisie’s is designed to maintain its discreet nature. Patrons must first navigate through a small storefront that sells cheeses and various food items. Accessing the speakeasy requires guests to know a daily passcode. For those unfamiliar with it, a host is available to provide hints to help them gain entry. Once inside, visitors find themselves in a dimly lit space that has no windows and can only accommodate around 50 guests, thus fostering an intimate environment.
Elisie’s atmosphere is designed to be modern and distinct from traditional Prohibition-era speakeasies, steering clear of period decorations. The venue promotes a relaxed experience, as there is no loud music and visitors are asked to place their phones on silent. In a commitment to preserving the ambiance, flash photography is strictly prohibited. Conversations among patrons can blossom freely, allowing for genuine interactions, as demonstrated by the camaraderie exhibited between couples at the bar.
On the ground floor below Elisie’s, Chef Rob Masone operates Kounter, a popular restaurant that serves as a perfect precursor for visitors before heading upstairs for drinks. Kounter offers a varied menu that includes light snacks and a selection of sweets, ensuring that diners have a satisfying meal to accompany their evening. Encouraging a layered dining experience, Elisie’s offers cocktails and a limited selection of beers for guests to enjoy.
The casual dress code at Elisie’s adds to the welcoming feel that the venue strives to achieve. While the establishment aims to create a relaxed vibe, it also serves as a reminder of the historical struggles for civil rights, integrating a social experience with a critical reflection on the past. The location of Elisie’s has deep historical roots, linking it to significant civil rights activism that took place in Rock Hill over half a century ago.
Elisie’s stands as a unique addition to Rock Hill’s offerings, combining modern hospitality with a respect for the impactful history associated with its location. As patrons sip their cocktails and share stories in this intimate setting, they are also reminded of the brave acts of the Friendship Nine, ensuring that the legacy of the civil rights movement remains a vital part of the community’s identity.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Elisie’s: A New Speakeasy Celebrating Rock Hill’s History
Rock Hill Opens New Speakeasy Elsie’s at Kounter
Charlotte Charity Expands Pediatric Cancer Research Efforts
New Distillery and Brewery to Open in Myrtle Beach
Additional Resources
- Axios: Charlotte Secret Bars & Speakeasies
- Wikipedia: Speakeasy
- QCityMetro: Speakeasy Bars & Lounges in Charlotte, NC
- Google Search: Speakeasy Charlotte
- Charlotte Magazine: Design a Speakeasy Inspired Living Room
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Civil Rights
- Axios: Charlotte Secret Speakeasy SYN in South End
- Google News: Charlotte Speakeasies
Author: STAFF HERE ROCK HILL
The ROCK HILL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERockHill.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Rock Hill, York County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Come-See-Me Festival, Rock Hill Arts Festival, and motorsport events at the Rock Hill Velodrome. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Rock Hill Chamber of Commerce and the Culture & Heritage Museums, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and technology that power the local economy such as 3D Systems and Comporium. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
