The History: A hundred years ago,
an era died, one that many mourned on that faithful day. The poor
residents didn't see it coming and those that shopped there would
be mostly caught unaware. When this cache hits October 13th, it
will be the anniversary of the death of Guy Town. On that day, the
city of Austin finally threw locks on the saloons, and unscrewed
the red lights that adorned this part of town. "Guy Town" was named
for those who came here for entertainment, it was the part of town
that no respectable girl would go to, and one that you can be
assured most respectable boys did. From around 1876, when the train
tracks were laid down 3rd street which helped drive away the
families to 1913 everyone was welcome to come have some fun. It
actually was one of the most integrated parts of Austin, equal
employment and enjoyment for all!
The fun was "enclosed" within the First Ward, bordered by the
river, Guadalupe, Colorado, and Fifth Street. It was not just
known, according to all reports found, it was tolerated, protected
and many of the female, um, entertainers were relocated here by the
police from other parts of town. Remember, Austin has less than
5,000 people in 1875, and 5% of the female population (between 18
& 44) were eligible for being moved to the 1st Ward. 30 plus
years of business couldn't save it from those that protested. I
doubt that anyone is going to raise a plaque (except for Mr_Toads!)
Alas, it is time to Geocache, so go do some googling and read that
part of Austin history that Great Aunt Belza is not about to bring
up at the next chapter meeting of the Junior League. Otherwise get
that GPS and get down to "Guy Town"
The Cache: Located at the only
remaining building from that era. This building was where many of
the residents bought goods to live on. I have read that they also
had several smaller buiding in the back that they rented out as
"residents" hmmm. Oh, look east, there is new City Hall. Politicans
always liked coming to Guy Town, guess that never changes. whooo
hooo. Have fun!
Bring a pen, watch for muggles, this in another rough part of
town to do a cache!