The Old Absinthe House, New Orleans 1940s

This fabulously illustrated 1940s menu by an unknown artist celebrates a blow-the-top-off-your-head drink called The Pirate's Dream from The Old Absinthe House in New Orleans. Rum-based, of course, it was a tribute to the infamous pirate Jean Lafitte. He was a smuggler who heroically fought for the United States against Great Britain in defense of New Orleans in the War of 1812. Bought by the gallon by customers of Owen Brennan, the legendary host of the establishment at that time, it was pretty powerful. Said Mr Brennan: "It will make every woman you know look like a queen and every man a mouse, or every woman a witch and every man a mate, depending on you."  Sounds like it would have been responsible for quite a few hangovers.

Courtesy Private Collection.

Each print is accompanied by a copy of the interior menu where available.

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