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About The Bonham Exchange
The Bonham Exchange is one of San Antonio’s most iconic nightlife venues, first opening its doors in 1981 inside a historic 19th-century building. Originally converted from an 1891 Turner Hall into a vibrant dance club and bar, The Bonham has been a beloved safe space and cultural hub for the LGBTQ+ community for over 40 years. It has hosted generations of patrons, unforgettable performances, and countless community events.
Under leader Joan Duckworth, the Bonham continues not just as a bar and dance club — but as a nonprofit cultural anchor, deeply woven into the fabric of San Antonio’s history and community.
What’s Happening Now
New fire-safety rules in San Antonio require bars, nightclubs, and other venues that serve alcohol and hold more than 300 people to be equipped with automatic fire sprinkler systems. Because The Bonham Exchange predates these codes and has operated without them for decades, the city is pushing for compliance.
The cost to install a proper fire sprinkler system in this historic 25,000-square-foot, multi-story building is estimated at $550,000 — a massive burden for a community nonprofit and independent venue.
Without the funds to complete this installation, the club could be forced to reduce its occupancy drastically or even close permanently — a heartbreaking outcome for the countless individuals and community groups who depend on it.
Why This Matters
The Bonham Exchange is more than just a bar — it’s a safe haven, a community gathering place, and a living piece of LGBTQ+ history. It has survived decades of change, challenges, and transitions, including ownership changes and the impacts of the pandemic.
For many people, The Bonham represents:
A place to belong
A space where identities are celebrated
A historic legacy for future generations to cherish
How Your Support Helps
Your donation will go directly toward:
- Installing a full fire sprinkler system that meets modern safety standards
- Preserving the building so it remains open for community gatherings, events, and celebrations
- Helping cover contractor costs and compliance work without compromising The Bonham’s ability to continue operating at capacity
Every dollar — big or small — brings us one step closer to keeping this cherished institution alive and thriving for years to come.
Thank You
Whether you donate or simply share this campaign, your support matters. Let’s help keep The Bonham Exchange open — a safe space, a historic landmark, and a home for community.