The Unusual Death of Notorious Bartender Ike Johnson

At the turn of the 19th century, bootlegger and gambler Ike Johnson established the Southern Turf in Nashville “Men’s Quarter. The Turf was a saloon, brothel, and gambling hall that became the most popular establishment in Nashville. He was well-liked by many, including famous distillers Jack Daniels and George Dickel. Despite his popularity, Ike ended his life with a self-inflicted gunshot on the second floor of his beloved Southern Turf. His death was unusual given that he had lived at the Southern Turf for 20 years, and the building had been praised for its lavish decorations, fixtures, and sanitation. However, after 20 years and a new law prohibiting alcohol, gambling, and extracurricular activities, the Southern Turf fell into disrepair and was eventually sold by the city to the Tennessean as a printing facility. Despite prohibition preventing ...