Closing Time Overruled

Fail! That one word sums up Prohibition just fine. What began in Kansas as a grassroots temperance movement to curb Americans' raging alcoholism led eventually to the passage of the 18th Amendment, outlawing the manufacture, transportation and sale of intoxicating liquors. But Prohibition surely didn't stanch Americans' thirst, not by a country mile. A new exhibit at the Missouri History Museum (Lindell Boulevard and DeBaliviere Avenue; 314-746-4599 or www.mohistory.org) examines -- through a beer glass, brightly -- this pivotal experiment in our social history. American Spirits: the Rise and Fall of Prohibition comprises more 100 rare artifacts, an actual re-created speakeasy, films, music, photographs, multimedia exhibits and more. A flask won't do for this volume of boozy information and materials; best bring a barrel or two. The exhibit opens Saturday, April 26, and is open every day through Sunday, August 17. Tickets are $5 to $10, and children younger than eighteen are admitted free.
Mondays, Fridays-Sundays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Tuesdays-Thursdays, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Starts: April 26. Continues through Aug. 17, 2014