Oasis Bordello Museum in Wallace, Idaho – Legends of America
Nestled in the historic town of Wallace, Idaho, the Oasis Bordello Museum stands as a unique testament to a bygone era. This isn’t your typical museum filled with dusty artifacts and hushed whispers. Instead, it offers a vibrant, sometimes poignant, and often hilarious glimpse into the daily life of a working brothel that operated until 1988. Imagine a place where time stood still, where the echoes of laughter, secrets, and hurried departures still linger in the air. That’s the Oasis Bordello Museum.
A Town Shaped by Silver and Solitude
To understand the Oasis Bordello Museum, one must first understand Wallace, Idaho. In the late 19th century, Wallace became the epicenter of one of the world’s richest silver mining districts. This boom brought a surge of men to the area, creating a stark gender imbalance. With men outnumbering women by nearly 200 to 1, the need for entertainment and companionship became a pressing issue. Enter establishments like the Oasis, which began its life in 1895 as a hotel and saloon within the Bi-Metallic Building. It didn’t take long for the building to transform, catering to the desires of the predominantly male population.
The Oasis: A World Within Walls
For decades, the Oasis Bordello thrived, alongside four other similar establishments, providing a service that was both discreet and in high demand. These businesses were known for their neon signs simply advertising "rooms," a subtle signal to travelers that something more than just rest was on offer. The Oasis became a world within walls, a place where miners, businessmen, and travelers sought solace, companionship, and a temporary escape from the rugged realities of life in the Wild West.
The Raid and the Freeze in Time
The story of the Oasis took a dramatic turn in 1988. Amidst allegations of a local politician turning a blind eye to law enforcement in exchange for campaign contributions, the Feds were closing in. The occupants of the Oasis, sensing the impending raid, made a hasty exit. In their haste, they left behind a treasure trove of personal belongings: clothing, makeup, toiletries, and even dirty dishes in the sink. It was as if time had frozen, capturing a moment just before the curtain fell on this unique chapter of Wallace’s history.
A Museum Unlike Any Other
Today, the Oasis Bordello is not just a building; it’s a living museum. The current proprietress, Michelle Mayfield, has meticulously pieced together the stories of the Oasis, drawing from the memories of the ladies’ hairdressers, local policemen, former bouncers and maids, and even the ladies themselves. Her dedication has transformed the Oasis into a captivating experience for visitors.
The tour, which lasts approximately 20 minutes, is a carefully curated journey through the bordello’s history. It’s a presentation that balances poignant moments with hilarious anecdotes, offering a balanced and respectful portrayal of the lives of the women who worked there. Visitors can explore the rooms, examine the artifacts left behind, and imagine what life was like within those walls.
More Than Just a Tour
The Oasis Bordello Museum offers more than just a tour of the rooms. The main floor houses a gift shop that’s free to enter, offering a range of items that reflect the spirit of the Old West. Here, you can find literature on women of the West, mementos from the Oasis’s operational days, and even lingerie ranging from modern thong panties to classic flannel nightgowns. The walls of the shop are adorned with murals by Robert Thomas, adding an artistic touch to the space.
The guided tour of the Oasis Rooms is the main attraction, but the museum also includes other displays of interest. In the basement, visitors can explore a still and an old wine press, offering a glimpse into the more hidden aspects of the bordello’s operations.
A Tasteful and Respectful Experience
What sets the Oasis Bordello Museum apart is its commitment to presenting a "tasteful" tour. The museum avoids sensationalism, focusing instead on the human stories behind the business. It’s a place where visitors can learn about the lives of the women who worked there, the social context of the time, and the unique role that brothels played in the history of the American West.
Visiting the Oasis Bordello Museum
If you’re planning a trip to Wallace, Idaho, the Oasis Bordello Museum is a must-see attraction. It’s a place where history comes alive, where you can step back in time and experience a world that is both fascinating and thought-provoking.
Contact Information:
Oasis Bordello Museum
605 Cedar Street
Wallace, Idaho
The Oasis Bordello Museum is more than just a museum; it’s a window into the past, a tribute to the women who lived and worked there, and a reminder of the complex and often contradictory nature of the American West. It’s a place where history, humor, and humanity come together to create an unforgettable experience.