A.L. Calhoun

1895(?)—1913

A.L. Calhoun was a black proprietor of a saloon in Keystone (“McDowell County,” 1895). I mention that he was black because Keystone was infamous at the time for having integrated saloons and brothels, as well as a general atmosphere of lawlessness and lust. For instance, in 1895, Calhoun was indicted on 34 charges of selling to minors and other liquor license violations (“McDowell County,” 1895). He operated this saloon and from 1900 he also operated a general store (Mercantile Agency, Sep. 1900). He shut down during prohibition, on paper, though given it was Keystone I would not be surprised if he operated underground during prohibition.