The Ship

Originally located at 411 East 10th Street in between Oak and Locust in downtown Kansas City, The Ship was a grand lounge opened shortly after the repeal of Prohibition in 1935, reportedly opened by Ethel Mae Wright, companion to a gentleman of means and questionable repute. Mike Salvato and Jasper Mirabile returned home from the Pacific Theater in WWII and assumed command of The Ship in 1950. In the mid-50’s, Mike aquired sole ownership when Jasper moved south to open his beloved Waldo neighbohrood restaurant. Mike and first mate Tony Cropis continuously operated the bar for 60 years. The Ship was a popular destination for a diverse mix of Kansas Citians and visitors, from judges and politicians to prostitutes and hoodlums. The Ship was reknown for boarding all passengers regardless of class or means.