The 00 block of South Auburn Avenue will be designated as “Vicky Hester Way” to recognize Vicky Hester, who owned and operated Babe’s of Carytown for nearly five decades and passed away last year at age 71.
Richmond City Council approved the designation honoring Hester, whose Carytown business is nationally recognized as one of the longest-running lesbian bars in the country. This is an honorary designation, meaning the official street name and existing addresses will not change.
Babe’s became, and remains, an important gathering place for Richmond’s LGBTQIA+ community through several periods over the last five decades when openly queer people faced discrimination, intimidation and legal challenges in Virginia.
The street designation was sponsored by 5th District Councilmember Stephanie Lynch and supported by Mayor Danny Avula. The commemorative signs will cost an estimated $800 and will be installed by the city’s Department of Public Works.
Main photo of Babe’s of Carytown at 3166 W Cary St, Richmond, VA by R. Anthony Harris
Support RVA Magazine. Support Independent Media in Richmond.
RVA Magazine has remained one of Richmond’s few independent voices. Since 2005, we have provided grassroots coverage of our artists, musicians, and communities, marginalized or otherwise, documenting the city’s culture that lies right under the surface and beyond the headlines.
But we can’t do this without you. A small amount, even as little as $2, one-time or recurring, helps us continue to produce honest, local coverage free from outside interference. Every dollar makes a difference. Your support helps keep us going and keeps the local creative spirit alive. Thank you for standing with independent media, and thank you for reading.
Show your SUPPORT HERE
Also, subscribe to the newsletter HERE
We’ve got merch HERE
Subscribe to the Substack HERE
And Reddit HERE
And YouTube HERE
