Wink's Tavern
A Prohibition-Era Dance Hall and Tavern with a Unique Legacy
Located within the Lincoln Hills Resort, Wink’s Tavern, operated by Winks Hamlet, became a lively dance hall and nightclub. Known for serving alcohol during Prohibition, it stood out as an integrated social hub, drawing patrons from nearby dry towns like Pine Cliff, Rollinsville, and even Denver.
A Social and Cultural Hub
Wink’s Tavern, operated by Winks Hamlet within the Lincoln Hills Resort, was a vibrant dance hall and nightclub that stood out for serving alcohol during Prohibition. This uniquely integrated spot attracted visitors of all backgrounds from nearby dry towns like Pine Cliffe and Rollinsville, and even as far as Denver. Known for its lively atmosphere, the tavern became a well-known yet understated gathering place in north Gilpin County.
A Multi-Purpose Space
Before becoming a tavern, the building served as a dining hall for Camp Nizhoni until the camp closed in 1945. Winks Hamlet then purchased the structure, transforming it into a thriving social venue.
The End of an Era
With the passage of the 1964 Civil Rights Act, African Americans gained access to a wider range of recreational opportunities, reducing the need for dedicated spaces like Wink’s Tavern. Following Winks Hamlet’s death in 1965, the tavern, along with other resort-related activities in Lincoln Hills, came to an end.
Wink’s Tavern remains a significant symbol of community, resilience, and the vibrant history of Lincoln Hills.
