Whispers of history linger here at Neir’s Tavern. This isn’t just any bar. It’s a living legend. Neir’s Tavern stands proudly in Woodhaven Queens. It’s one of the oldest bars in the United States. Nearly two centuries of stories are etched into its very wood.
Neir’s Tavern first opened its doors in 1829. It has been operating almost continuously since then. Even Prohibition couldn’t dim its lights. It has survived under various names. The Blue Pump Room Old Abbey Neir’s Social Hall and Union Course Tavern were all previous names. It was a speakeasy during Prohibition. It thrived near the Union Course racetrack. Many track patrons visited during its heyday. The Neir family owned it from 1898 to 1967. Then it faced closure in 2009. New owners rescued it. They undertook a major refurbishment. The 150-year-old mahogany bar was restored. A kitchen was added. Neir’s reopened in 2010.
Loycent Gordon a firefighter now owns Neir’s Tavern. But others own the building. The restored mahogany bar dates back to Ulysses S Grant’s presidency. In 2019 the Neir’s 190 Committee formed to preserve the tavern. It faced another threat of closure in 2020. The rent was too high. Public officials intervened. Mayor Bill de Blasio helped negotiate a deal. Neir’s was saved again. The city even gave a $90000 grant.
Neir’s Tavern isn’t just a bar. It’s a community hub. It hosts fundraisers food drives and collections. There’s an October block party. It celebrates Neir’s history. Its bicentennial will be in 2029. Owner Loycent Gordon’s motto is “Community conquers all”. He has saved Neir’s Tavern twice.
Attempts to get landmark status have failed. This highlights the city’s focus on Manhattan. Locals are fiercely protective of their tavern. They want to ensure it remains for future generations. Neir’s Tavern has appeared in movies. Scenes from Goodfellas and Tower Heist were filmed here. Legend says Goodfellas gangsters frequented Neir’s. Anthony Bourdain even featured it on Parts Unknown. There’s a legend that Mae West performed here as a child. Neir’s Tavern even has a cocktail named after her the Mae West Punch.
Neir’s Tavern is more than just a bar. It’s a testament to community resilience. It’s a piece of living history. It’s a place where stories are made and memories are forged. So raise a glass to Neir’s Tavern. May its legacy endure for centuries to come.