Women's History Tribute: A cigar lounge that blows more than smoke
{Contributed Photo}
In the heart of Lexington, North Carolina, where the air is perfumed with a fiery history. The faint aroma of aged bourbon and cigars at Smoke & Oak stands out like no other. With its warm leather chairs, shelves of glimmering whiskey bottles, and a humidor filled with cigars as diverse as its patrons, it has become a welcoming sanctuary for those seeking reprieve and camaraderie.
When I first stepped into Smoke & Oak for a story, I hadn’t planned on staying, but the inviting atmosphere and the sight of women—yes, women—laughing and smoking cigars reeled me in. It felt like a defiance of convention, a nod to independence, and I craved it.
Smoke & Oak is more than just a lounge; it is a crossroads of stories and traditions. Among the regulars, many tales unfold, some whispered between friends and others shared openly over a fine pour of bourbon. It is a place where history lingers in the air as much as the smoke, a space where past and present meet with a quiet understanding that everything is "off the record."
This is Women's History Month, and we are seeking to share empowering narratives.
Women have long been integral to the cigar industry, particularly as skilled cigar rollers, or torcedoras. In Cuba, María Sierra became the first female roller to gain widespread recognition for her precision and artistry. Her work inspired many women to enter the field, breaking gender barriers in a traditionally male-dominated craft.
Women played crucial roles in tobacco cultivation, often working alongside men in the fields. Their meticulous attention to detail in sorting and selecting leaves was essential for producing premium cigars. Figures like Felicia Roque, who supported her family’s cigar business during tough times, highlight the often-unseen labor of women in the industry.
Historically, cigar smoking was associated with wealth, power, and masculinity. However, women like Amelia López in mid-20th century Cuba defied these norms by smoking cigars publicly, paving the way for future generations of female cigar enthusiasts.
Speaking with Operations Director Julie Harshaw provided a deeper understanding of what makes Smoke & Oak unique. She shared how being around passionate cigar lovers made it easy to embrace the culture, history, and cigars themselves. In just two years, she had gone from smoking a few cigars a year to a few a day. Harshaw is the second woman in the state to earn the title of cigar sommelier.
Smoke & Oak thrives on inclusivity, welcoming everyone who walks through its doors. The mission is simple—love everyone. Whether it's someone’s first cigar ever or just their first of the day, the staff is eager to help find the perfect stick. Julie especially enjoys seeing women step out of their comfort zones, embracing the experience with curiosity and excitement. She takes pride in guiding them through the process, from selecting a cigar to cutting, lighting, and savoring it.
Julie wrote, “I love when a woman decides to “when in Rome” and try a cigar for the first time. It can be intimidating so we’re happy to walk people through the whole process - picking a cigar, cutting, lighting and enjoying!”
When asked about her favorite cigar, Julie admits it changes constantly. Right now, she leans towards the Leaf by Oscar Maduro, but her choice depends on several factors—the time of day, the drink in her hand, and whether she’s unwinding or working at the lounge. The beauty of cigars, she believes, is in their versatility and the unique experience each one brings.
Smoke & Oak also demonstrated its commitment to supporting women by donating a specialty gift basket Courtesy of owners April Craft Crowson and Courtney Crowson to Women AdvaNCe in honor of Women's History Month, further solidifying its dedication to inclusivity.
As I step out of Smoke & Oak, the scent of cigars lingers on my clothes, a reminder of the history, camaraderie, and resilience that define this space. This is more than just a lounge—it is a testament to the evolving culture of cigars, where tradition meets transformation. Barriers that once kept women on the margins of this world are being broken with quiet confidence, knowledge and an unshakable sense of belonging.
