Carusi's Saloon

Carusi's Saloon was a social venue in Washington, D.C. that operated during the 19th century. According to the White House Historical Association, it was a popular destination that hosted notable inaugural balls for several American presidents.

History

The venue was founded and operated by Gaetano Carusi, a Sicilian and member of the U.S. Marine Band. In 1837, it was located at 11th and C Streets NW in Washington. The venue remained popular into the late 1850s but eventually ceased standard operations around that time.

In 1837, the inaugural ball for Martin Van Buren took place at Carusi's.
In 1841, the inaugural ball for William Henry Harrison took place at Carusi's.
In 1843, Polish officer Gaspar Tochman gave a lecture at Carusi's. He was described as a "patriot" who lectured on the tenuous relationship between Poland and the partitioning powers at the time. The Baltimore Sun described his reception in Washington as "glowing."
In 1845, one of the inaugural balls for James K. Polk took place at Carusi's. Tickets were priced at $10, and a piece in The New York Times described this event as meant for the "aristocracy of Locofocodom".
In 1853, Thackeray gave lectures on English humorists at Carusi's. The Washington Star described his performance as being monotone.
Abraham Lincoln attended a minstrel show by the Ethiopian Serenaders at Carusi's.