The Vault
The Vault was founded by Janet Carpenter (a former banker) and Frank Cooke (a former carpenter) in 1984. It was originally located at 675 Hudson Street (basement level) and later moved to 28-10th Avenue in the Meatpacking District of Manhattan.
The Meatpacking District at the time was a gritty, industrial area—far from the upscale neighborhood it later became—making it a suitable location for a subversive, sexually liberated venue like The Vault.
The Vault was notable for its multi-floor layout, each catering to different sexual orientations and kinks:
- Main Floor: Straight and bi couples and singles
- Upper Floors: LGBTQ+ rooms
- Basement Dungeon: For intense BDSM play (bondage, discipline, dominance/submission, sadomasochism)
It was equipped with:
- Bondage furniture
- St. Andrew’s crosses
- Cages and suspension rigs
- Voyeur areas and private rooms
The club hosted events such as:
- Slave auctions
- Hot wax nights
- Uniform and leather parties
Theme nights for specific fetishes or roleplay
Clientele & Culture
The Vault had a diverse and inclusive environment, attracting:
- Fetish community regulars
- Curious newcomers
- Celebrities (Madonna, Al Pacino, among rumored visitors)
- Porn stars and sex workers
Its open-minded ethos made it a safe haven for exploration and expression, especially during a time when BDSM was still highly stigmatized.
Legal Issues & Closure
During the Giuliani administration in the 1990s, there was a widespread crackdown on adult establishments, including sex clubs and peep shows. Despite frequent inspections and pressure to close, The Vault survived longer than many peers.
Eventually, in 1997, the State of New York condemned the building to make way for a highway expansion project (Route 9A). The owners were awarded compensation, and The Vault closed permanently.
Legacy
Photographic Documentation: Photographers like Efrain John Gonzalez captured much of the club's atmosphere and culture.
Influence: The Vault influenced later clubs and events in NYC’s BDSM and kink communities.
Historical Importance: It helped normalize discussions around kink and BDSM, paving the way for future education and advocacy.
Today, The Vault is remembered as a symbol of pre-gentrified, sexually liberated NYC, with its history preserved through underground publications, photography, and oral histories.
External links
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