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Gangsters, Ghosts and Barbecue: The County Line's Colorful History Lingers Decades Later

Posted on 04/15/2006

Oklahoma City, Okla. –The County Line Bar-B-Q in Oklahoma City's Adventure District is not only known for great food and a unique atmosphere, but is hauntingly out of the ordinary!

During its storied history The County Line has been home to speakeasies, nightclubs and several eating establishments since the 1920s. The County Line isn't just another barbecue joint; you may eat your meal with some unexpected guests. Local legend has it a murdered man's spirit still wanders the building late at night.

Two Oklahoma paranormal teams, Ghouli and PROS Investigation, have monitored The County Line for ghostly activity since 2004. Both teams report paranormal activity upstairs and downstairs, declaring The County Line an official haunted site.

The ghost sightings originate from one of the facility's most notable establishments, The Kentucky Club. Tony Maneres, a Greek immigrant who moved to Oklahoma City with his wife, Winnie, entertained their first guests at The Kentucky Club one sultry summer night in 1939.

The club quickly became known as a "speakeasy," a place where the most select personalities like governors, doctors and lawyers could go to gamble and imbibe liquor. The club gained a notorious reputation due to the many raids by law enforcement officials who confiscated everything from slot machines to gambling dice.

The County Line staff members know the legends by heart. Brenda Harper, the current general manager, recalls the story of a well-known club member.

"A man known as Russell was a regular at the club until one evening when his wife burst into the club and caught him illegally drinking and gambling," said Harper. "He was murdered in front of the fireplace."

Decades later, the once infamous facility is home to one of Oklahoma's most famous barbecue restaurants. Guests can still enjoy a cool 1940s atmosphere. Sit in one of the many private rooms previously used for eating, drinking and a little illegal gambling. But remember, if the hairs on the back of your neck stand up, one of The County Line's ghostly guests may have joined you for dinner.

The County Line is located just two blocks west of the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum on NE 63rd St. in Oklahoma City's Adventure District. The restaurant is opened for lunch and dinner seven days a week.

Oklahoma City's Adventure District is your place for a delicious time. For more information on attractions, call (405) 290-PLAY or visit www.okcadventure.com.

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