Norreh Social Club/Donny's Place (Pittsburgh Gay Bar and Club/1973-2022/Donny's Place Pittsburgh) Color:Black offering mentorship

offering mentorship

far from judgment and close to joy

while countless men found connection

it offered something rare for the Midwest: a space unapologetically built on queer desire

Thelma Houston

Norreh Social Club/Donny's Place (Pittsburgh Gay Bar and Club/1973-2022/Donny's Place Pittsburgh) Color:Black offering mentorshipThe Norreh Social ClubHerron spelled backwardwas a cornerstone of Pittsburghs LGBTQ+ nightlife, operating from 1973 until its closure in 2022. Established by Donald R. Thinnes, a Vietnam veteran and protg of local gay bar pioneer Robert Lucky Johns, the club was located at 1226 Herron Avenue in the Polish Hill neighborhood. In 1991, Thinnes renamed it Donnys Place, reflecting his personal commitment to the space. Donnys Place was more than just a