It's the end of an era. Fran's Place, the oldest gay bar in Massachusetts, is closing its doors for good.
The Lynn business is being sold.
Robert "Tish" Muise is the bar's general manager and longest-tenured employee, having worked at Fran's Place for 34 years.
"It's very sad," said Muise. "But actually happy, too. There's a lot of memories but the time is now and things are going good, so this is the time to sell," said Muise.
The family-owned business has been on Washington Street in Lynn since the 1940s. It was first called the Lighthouse Cafe and then became Fran's Place in the 1970's. It's a place Muise says has been a safe haven for the LGBT community.
"It's been a savior to a lot of young people. They know that they can come here and be safe, be happy and be themselves," Muise explained. "The best part is people are starting to unite together and together we can all stand strong."
Muise says the property will be sold by the end of September. A farewell party will take place Sept. 24. Doors officially close to customers Sept. 26.
