Barringer's Tavern Blog

Barringer’s Tavern opened in 1879. Same property, same address. As you’d expect, a lot of stuff has changed since then. And some things — not so much.

What was this southside neighborhood like back then? We were curious too. So we did some digging and here’s what we uncovered:

• In 1879, all of Indy had roughly 75,000 residents.
• Rutherford B Hayes, a former Union soldier and governor of Ohio was our 19^th
• The Civil War (1861-1865) was still fresh in the minds of Hoosiers, as Indiana Governor Oliver Morton organized 196,000 soldiersto serve in the Union Army, one of the highest of the northern states.
• Horses pulled wagons down dusty streets of dirt or gravel. (Ford’s Model T wouldn’t be around for another 29 years!)
• Wooden sidewalks were common.
• At night, gas lamps had to be hand-lit on each streetcorner and in our bar.

Indy’s southside wasn’t the bustling residential and commercial area it is today. It was home to many railroad workers, factory employees, teamsters, craftsmen, and laborers, folks worked long hours and appreciated a place to gather after their shifts.

German and Irish immigrants helped build this neighborhood, establishing churches, social clubs, breweries, businesses, and of course, neighborhood taverns and saloons that became extensions of the family living room.

Soon to be called “the crossroads” of America, Indianapolis was fast becoming one of the country’s most important railroad hubs. The railroads drove everything. And many southside residents depended on it for their livelihoods. Freight trains, rail yards, whistles, and their smoke — were a part of daily life.

Barringer’s Tavern wasn’t just another business. It was this community’s living room. Sure, it was a place to drink and socialize after work. But it was also a community center, a place to host political conversations, celebrate weddings, mourn losses, a place to settle disagreements, and welcome newcomers. Handshakes turned strangers into lifelong friends.

Through the years, one thing has remained remarkably constant: People still crave a place where they feel welcome, and that never goes out of style.

Barringer’s Tavern. Where every seat feels like your usual spot.

~ Rob & Pat