Mexicali Red-Light District Era

1908 — 1925

Regions: Mexico, Baja California, US-Mexico Border

border studiessocial historygamblingprostitution

The rise and peak of Mexicali’s red-light district, centered around establishments like the Owl Café and Theatre. American visitors crossed the border from Calexico, California to access gambling, alcohol, prostitution, and entertainment unavailable or illegal in the United States. The district’s growth accelerated with US Prohibition in 1920.

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