From The Banner · Wesley Case · · 1m 10s
Charles Bowers Dies at 81
Baltimore gay bar founder Charles Bowers, who built a safe space for LGBTQIA+ community, dies.
In brief
Baltimore gay bar founder Charles Bowers, who built a safe space for LGBTQIA+ community, dies. Charles Bowers, former owner of Baltimore gay bar the Hippo, died at 81 after 37 years of running the club that became a community hub. Originally reported by The Banner.
Charles Bowers dies
Charles Bowers, former owner of Baltimore gay bar the Hippo, died at 81.
Hippo club history
Bowers turned the Mount Vernon club into a judgment-free refuge for queer and straight locals.
Safe space legacy
He created a safe space where everyone felt welcome, including during the AIDS crisis.
AIDS advocacy
Bowers partnered with AIDS Action Baltimore to raise funds and awareness for the epidemic.
Community hub
The Hippo helped establish Mount Vernon as Baltimore’s gayborhood with drag shows and holiday parties.
Family legacy
Bowers retired in 2015 after 37 years, taking family on two Caribbean cruises.
Personal touch
He chose premium steakhouses despite friends’ concerns about his spending.
Family tribute
Cathy Bowers says he treated her like a queen during her cancer battle.
Community impact
Bowers’ death marks a hard loss for Baltimore’s LGBTQIA+ community after recent bar owner deaths.
The key point
Charles Bowers, former owner of Baltimore gay bar the Hippo, died at 81 after 37 years of running the club that became a community hub.
