Steve Ostrow, the pioneering founder of the trailblazing New York City gay bathhouse, the Continental Baths, passed away at the age of 91. Known for launching the careers of iconic artists such as Bette Midler and Barry Manilow, Ostrow’s legacy left an indelible mark on the world of music and the LGBTQ+ community. His death on February 4 was mourned by friends and admirers around the globe.
A Visionary Entrepreneur
Steve Ostrow, a native of Brooklyn, opened the Continental Baths in 1968 in the basement of the historic Ansonia Hotel on Manhattan’s Upper West Side. The once-abandoned space was transformed into an opulent Roman-themed bathhouse, complete with pools, Turkish baths, and a disco floor. Ostrow’s vision was to create a clean and glamorous haven that would attract a new clientele seeking both entertainment and camaraderie.
An Incubator of Talent and Social Awakening
The Continental Baths quickly became more than just a music and dance venue for the gay community. It became a symbol of the LGBTQ+ community’s political and social awakening amidst a broader movement that would culminate in the monumental Stonewall protests in lower Manhattan. The impact of the Continental Baths extended far beyond its walls, making it a nexus of cultural and historical significance.
From Iconic Performances to Cultural Revolution
The Continental Baths not only provided a platform for emerging artists to showcase their talents but also became a destination for groundbreaking music. Rising star Bette Midler graced the poolside stage, accompanied by the then-unknown Barry Manilow on piano, solidifying her status as an LGBTQ+ icon. The Continental Baths DJs shaped the dance sounds that would become staples of pop culture, leaving an indelible imprint on the music industry.
The End of an Era
Despite its immense popularity, the Continental Baths faced a decline in the 1970s as its musical reputation drew a more mainstream audience, causing its original patrons from the LGBTQ+ community to gradually move on. In 1976, the club closed its doors, making way for a new chapter. The basement space was transformed into Plato’s Retreat, a swinger’s club catering to heterosexual couples.
A Life Beyond Boundaries
Steve Ostrow’s remarkable journey continued even after the closure of the Continental Baths. In the 1980s, he relocated to Sydney, Australia, where he served as the director of the Sydney Academy of Vocal Arts and founded Mature Age Gays (MAG), a social group for older members of Australia’s LGBTQ+ community. Ostrow’s dedication to fostering relationships and providing support to others left an enduring legacy.
FAQs
What was the cause of Steve Ostrow’s death?
Steve Ostrow passed away on February 4 at the age of 91. The cause of his death has not been disclosed.
How did the Continental Baths impact the LGBTQ+ community?
The Continental Baths played a pivotal role in the LGBTQ+ community’s social and cultural awakening. It provided a safe space for self-expression, a platform for emerging artists, and helped to shape the music and dance revolution that emerged from New York City’s gay scene.
Conclusion
Steve Ostrow, the founder of the iconic Continental Baths, will be remembered as a visionary entrepreneur whose contributions to the music industry and LGBTQ+ community were immeasurable. His legacy lives on, as his groundbreaking establishment continues to inspire future generations. The loss of Steve Ostrow leaves a void, but his memory will forever be cherished and celebrated.
