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Q: What was the name of Houghton’s in La Crosse before the name change? Also, what have been the name changes involving other well known bars from La Crosse’s past? I seem to remember Dick’s Seldom Inn, Shimshak’s Tavern and Bendel’s Bar from the days of my youth, but apparently they have all since changed ownership and names. Can a few examples be provided?
A: Houghton’s, 1002 Jackson St., was known as the Gateway Inn Tavern from 1947 to 1977. From 1978 to 1986, it was Friar Tuck’s Gateway Inn. It was Houghton’s Fine Foods and Cocktails from 1988 until it burned earlier this year. Owner Jim Wiley is rebuilding.
You might be thinking of Don’s Seldom Inn (1976-90) at 1031 S. Fourth St. Also at that address: Ed’s Roost Tavern (1945-59), Don’s Bar (1959-75), Ski’s/Ski’s Sports Bar (1991-2006) and TD’s on Fourth (2007).
J. Shimshak Beverages was at 1203 West Ave. S. from 1934 to 1941, followed by Shimshak’s Tavern (1942-99), known as Shimmy’s since 2002.
Bendel’s Bar (1961-94) at 1200 S. 11th St. spent 1959 and 1960 as Joe’s Silver Dollar Bar. It was Teddy Bear’s from 1995 to 1998. It’s now the Adams Street Pub.
Other bars in that general neighborhood included Bohemian Hall at 1503 S. Seventh St. (address no longer exists), Chub’s Pub at 1321 S. Eight St. (now King’s Korner), Dick and Ann’s at 948 Jackson St. (now Mr. Stix), Kitty Korner Annex at 2005 West Ave. S. (now the Barrel Inn), Our Corner Tavern at 1000 Redfield St. (no longer a tavern), Ringside Bar at 901 S. Seventh St. (now the Recovery Room), Snuffy’s at 1903 West Ave. S. (still Snuffy’s), the Sports Inn at 1304 S. Sixth St. (no longer exists), Strasser’s Tavern at 1310 Denton St. (now Class of ’68), Thirsty’s at 1019 S. 10th St. (now Tailgators), Trute’s Bar at 1000 Mississippi St. (no longer exists) and Weigel’s Tavern at 1412 Fifth Ave. S. (no longer a tavern).
There were 108 taverns listed in the 1979 La Crosse city directory.
In cooperation with the La Crosse Public Library, the Tribune invites questions of local interest. We’ll try to find the answers and publish them. Call (608) 791-8450 or e-mail to news@lacrossetribune.com.
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