Popular LGBT Hangout Jackhammer Saved By Andersonville Bar Owners
October 11, 2018 / By Edgeville Buzz
Jackhammer Bar and Leather64TENat 6406-6410 N. Clark have been facing an uncertain future since the building they have been located in for the past 20 years was forced into foreclosure in 2016. In June of 2018, Both the businesses and the building’s tenants were preparing for a possible eviction.
However, in a press release put out by the parties involved it was announced that a buyer was found to purchase Jackhammer in a deal facilitated by the Davis Theatre’s Tom Fenci. The new owners will be the same duo behind SOFO tap and The Meeting House in Andersonville, 2Bears Tavern Group‘s Mark Robertson and Mike Sullivan.
Fenci, who acquired the rights to the foreclosed property, originally received an offer from an outside investment firm who wanted to obtain the building. With many in the LGBT community worried about the possible loss of the popular Northside bar, Fenci went to work to find a buyer who would keep the local hangout in operation.
So Fenci enlisted Laura Rahilly of Rahilly and Associates with Coldwell Banker in order to use their community contacts to find a more appropriate buyer and possibly save Jackhammer. After starting a search and receiving over 100 inquiries, Robertson and Sullivan (who were one of the first in line to express interest in the purchase) were chosen as the most suitable buyers.
“When Mark and I heard about the foreclosure of Jackhammer and the building it owned, we had the same reaction as everyone else – the community couldn’t lose Jackhammer or Leather64TEN,” said Sullivan.
Jackhammer, which caters to a diverse crowd, has given the neighborhood an equally diverse selection of entertainment including international fetish events, drag shows and go-go dancers. Known for its late night scene that goes until 5 a.m. on the weekends; the complex includes three separate spaces for dancing, sports and fetish events.
“Mark and Mike have a proven track record in growing LGBTQ businesses and the same commitment to supporting the community as I do. This deal will bring long term stability to Jackhammer. It’s definitely a win for the LGBTQ community,” said Jackhammer co-founder Jimmy Keup. “I have faced a lot of obstacles over the past 18+ years, but despite it all, Jackhammer remains a Chicago treasure, with an international reputation.”
According to the release, Keup will remain on as General Manager to maintain brand continuity and legacy while Robertson and Sullivan will help co-manage the space starting October 14. The transaction should be complete sometime in November.
