East Pecan Street, now called Sixth Street, has remained a prominent corridor in downtown Austin since the city's incorporation in 1840. Its historic, Victorian-style buildings have mostly remained the same, but the street's social function has continually evolved.
Almost 20 years ago, January 30, 1999 was a notable night in the history of both Sixth Street and the Austin music scene. The punk club Bates Motel was closing, and the Kiss Offs were the last band of the night. As they finished up their set, the crowd grew restless . . .