LINCOLN PARK — Historic blues bar Kingston Mines is at risk of closing for good after months of being closed due to the coronavirus pandemic.
The bar, which has hosted blues legends like Magic Slim, Koko Taylor and Joanna Connor since opening in 1968 at 2548 N. Halsted St., is calling for community support as it tries to reopen and stave off a permanent closure, according to a GoFundMe page supporting Kingston Mines.
So far, the fundraising campaign has raised more than $19,000, which bar owners have used to pay the bills and keep its lights on, according to the Chicago Tribune, which first reported the story. The bar’s owners hope to reopen by Labor Day weekend with strict indoor capacity limits.
“We want to thank all of our donors for their continued support during this trying time,” the business said in a GoFundMe update. “We have especially enjoyed reading your memories of Kingston Mines and how we have touched your life.”
Kingston Mines, one of the oldest blues bar in Chicago, has been closed since March when the coronavirus pandemic hit and the state’s stay at home order began.
Kingston Mines had already “spent the last two years fighting to recover” after founder Doc Pellegrino died, leaving the business to his daughters, Donna and Lisa Pellegrino, according to the GoFundMe.
“A permanent closure is looming,” they warned.
The bar, which includes a Southern fare restaurant, has continued serving its signature dishes and sealed alcoholic beverages via delivery.
Delivery orders can be placed by calling Kingston Mines at 773-477-4646.
Jake Wittich is a Report for America corps member covering Lakeview, Lincoln Park and LGBTQ communities across the city for Block Club Chicago.
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