Inwood: The Bar Scene of Not So Long Ago

I’m particularly glad to see the photos of the Hedgehog, though I do remember the Hitching Post, Last Stop, Garyowens, Donemay, Keenan’s (some only from the outside), too. Do you know the date of the photo with the “For Rent” sign in the window? The Hedgehog had free corned beef & cabbage every St. Patrick’s Day and the beers were a dime (this may have been the regular price, I rarely found myself there when it wasn’t St. Pat’s). The place was also jumping when the Islanders were winning their Stanley Cups in the beginning of the 80s. Hockey seemed to be the Irish sport of choice. Back in the 70s, you’d see lots of kids carrying sticks and wearing roller skates (later, blades). I see that there still is a paved hockey rink in Inwood Park by the Hudson, but it seems to be more used by Central and South Americans for volleyball at this point.

“Sic transit gloria mundi”

Where is Knudsons or the Park View,Johnny Loftus on Arden or The Lakes on Nagle?Walter Winchel,once wrote of Inwood, “it is the valley of Bars and Liquor stores”. I know the next question’ Who is Walter Winchell”? Oh to be young again in Inwood

Also they forget to mention Vinegar Hill Bar on W 215 St and 10th Ave

My friend Dave in Boston has the Hedgehog Inn sign at his home (and old firehouse) in Boston. He has one of the countries largest collections of vintage neon signs (like the original Times Square Howard Johnson’s Simple Simon and the Pie Man) and one day in the late 1980s I convinced him to get the sign (yes he paid for it) and we dismantled it and it lives, restored, at his place.
A few bars that frequently get left off a list of long lost Inwood bars are Lakes of Killarney and Barones. I played on the LofK Little League team in Inwood and Barones is the only team I remember playing against.

Is the Whale still at the corner of Arden St & Broadway?

I believe The Whale is now the Irish Brigade bar. With Patrick’s Bar closed it leaves Piper’s Kilt (our own family room as the 7th year old calls it), Liffey II, Irish Eyes and the Brigade as the only Irish bars left in a neighborhood that had 5 dozen in the not too distant past.

Hey Cole – – While the Whale is no longer there, the space is still a bar — it’s the Irish Brigade now. That name change took place in about 86 or 87, I’d say. Before it was the Whale it was the Park Gate.

Ah, Grippo’s Torch Cafe. 207th near Bway. I was 16, you sat in booth, beer was .15. Great memories. I was in Inwood from mid 50’s until mid 60’s. Every New Year’s McSherry’s would have a fire. We would drink in Inwood Hill Park, near handball courts. It was cold, but who knew? Also, there was a bar owned by Carmel Quinn, who was on the Arthur
Godfrey Show. It was on 207th, on a triangle, near Post Avenue. I go back a long way. Also, the Campus Inn on 207th and 10th, it had windows that opened to the street, great place after swimming at the Miramar Pool. Thank you again for the memories, must get the book.

How about Green Acres? Broadway and 211th st I believe. I remember drinking cokes and having chips at the bar while my dad had his beer!

How about Sam’s Tavern on Sherman between Academy and 204th st. And the Inwood Lounge accross the street from Sams. And Chambers on Sherman and 207th street. And Barry’s on Academy between Sherman and Post Ave. And Barrones on Nagel and Dykman. They had great food in there. During the 50s and early 60s Inwood had more bars than any other neighborhood in NYC. Do you remember the Rheingold Girls? Schaffer beer? Knickerbocker beer? Peals beer? And we also had the 52 lane bowling ally on Broadway and Nagel. Great place to drink. Drank in there when I was 16 and the day I got my draft card Don’t you know I was asked for proof. Needless to say the bartender who had been serving me for years was pissed. LOL. We also used to drink in the Hi Ho chinese restaurant on Dykman Street.

The father of the American poet and Inwood native, Jim Carroll, ran a bar in Inwood in the 60’s/70’s– can anyone tell me what the name of it was and where it was located?

Rob, Green Acres closed in the mid-90s. The site is now first class cab service.

In a related note, “Dick’s” hardware store closed recently on Broadway near 207th st (across street from Pipers Kilt) and after the signage was taken down, there was an imprint of the name “Mahoney’s” left behind. I wonder if that was the site of a bar a long time ago?

Tom, Mahoney’s was a Irish Deli back in the good days spent countless hours hanging outside or inside that store

I’ve hears about all the bars in Inwood,Grippos owned by Lorraine Grippo,but two of my favorites were: The “Triangle bar”at post ave and 10 and the very famous Fays on broadway next to Connors funeral home,right accross fron MCSherrys,ans how abou Fords next to the subway entrance(big cops hangout )because of Broadway beus stopped there and 8the ave sobway stopped there and bronx crosstown stopper there

I visited Nugent’s bar in the summer of 1977. I had bragged to my boyfriend, soon to be husband, Drew Nugent, about how beautiful Inwood was. So one summer afternoon, Drew and I and a friend, took the subway up to Dykeman St. and hiked through the park. I showed them that view of the Hudson, that we all love so much, and we exited near 207th St. Thirsty and in need of a beer, we eyed “Nugent’s bar” and thought it would be a hoot to go in there. We proudly introduced ourselves to the bartender, announcing that Drew’s name was Drew Nugent. The bartender was singularly unimpressed. Later I realized that it was Drew and our friend’s long hair that put him off.
A few weeks ago, a friend from church who grew up in Inwood told me that the owner of Nugent’s was Shaemus Nugent. The friend thinks Shaemus was from Tipperary or Galway. He was definitely not from County Cork, where Drew and “my Nugent’s” ancestors were from. I’m sure Sheamus would have been relieved to know he was ‘no kin” to those “long-haired Nugents”. The “county thing” in Ireland is huge…as I’m sure most of the readers know.
My friend from church grew up in Inwood. He tells me that when he was a boy scount, in about 1970, he earned a merit badge by counting all the bars in Inwood. He counted them from 196th St. to 218th St., river to river. There were 103. Only in Inwood could a boy scout earn a merit badge counting the bars.

Thanks for the memories, lads and lassies. I was a Good Shepherd kid and my dad drank in every bar in Inwood, after tending his own saloon all day–the Blue Bar of the Algonquin Hotel. As kids, no trip to Inwood Park or Ft Tryon was complete without stopping at McSherry’s, the Park Gate or Keenan’s for a bracer. Does anyone remember Jimmy Goode’s, on Broadway and 204th? My brother and I would sip Cokes and munch Bon Ton potato chips or a fistful of broken cashews from the vending machine. Of course I remember Mahoney’s grocery store. Fay’s was before my time but my parents spoke highly of the place… my dad ate a lot of his meals there as a bachelor. Good times!

I remember reading that Walter Winchell also called Inwood “Ginwood.”

Thanks for the memories. I was a denizen of Doc Fiddlers.

i did not hear anyone mention the Inn Between, the special was thursday 10 cents a drink for the girls . And the best softball team in inwood.

OMG! This page just brought me 2 my knees. My folks had the Outlet Store- corner Payson Ave. Across from Payson Park. As u were going to the river. Oh yes, we drank there also.
Thanks 4 the memories.
Remember, I was in LOVE w Jimmy Pladl ( Scully) lol.

How about Farrells on 207 corner Tenth Ave by the IRT
El train 1 —

How about Farrells on 207 corner Tenth Ave by the IRT
El train 1 —

The Ol’ Shilling was on 207 on the triangle at Post. Remember 1967_69 they had bands play weekend usually from Ireland. We would go in and listen to them rehearse in the day………we were kids……….they let us listen…….Does Anyone know what it was called before Ol’Shilling..

I remember Mahoney’s as Peter Reeves, run by Casey (whose real name, I believe, was Mike Mahoney, and thus he took over the place?). I had my first job there, stocking the beer shelves for minimum wage — then $1.85/hour. It kept me busy.

And what about the Sloop, on Broadway down by Dyckman? I spent many a night there in the 1970s.

And who else remembers the song that had this couplet?:

From the steps, to Peter Reeves, to Garryowens, and all the bars.
God Bless old Inwood, my home, sweet home.

My favorite was Markey’s on Broadway between Dyckman and Thayer Streets. Glenn, the bartender was nicknamed “Eagle” by Danny Darby. Glenn was bald. Charlie the bartender/waiter could make the most wonderful corned beef and cabbage I ever had.
I was so lucky to have experienced the warmth and cameraderie of Markey’s and all the wonderful patrons, drunk or sober, who ever crossed it’s threshhold. So, why did the deer wear the sailor hats??????

i remember my nanny and all my aunts and uncles lived on sherman aveune and my uncle was always at tow are three favorites on sherman ave lov the memories thanks a great

i cant believe that i couldn’t remember the name Hedgehog since i lived down the street from there on academy. i think i blocked a lot of those days out lol

what was the name of the bar under the #1 el down 207 th? i called it Lynch’s as i knew someone whose father worked there and they were named Lynch.

The Bar Scene Of Inwood’s Social Brought Out Either The Best Or Worst In All. Between The Bar Leagues For Softball & Football All Had A Great Time Even Bowling. As A New Guy On The Block I Played Some Softball For Minogues Met’s The Team With Many Older Players Who Won One Very Important Game Defeating Barry’s . The Fast Paced Area Of Bars With Very Good Food Came Along After The Old Time Foster’s Beer Garden Became Doc Fiddler’s Which Gave An Upgrade To The Area Along With Chambers Who Always Had A Great Following With Teams & Both Moved Up Into The Greater Riverdale Area Of The Bronx/Yonkers Border Line Area.

I remember all of these places vividly and I enjoyed looking through this website that my daughter found. I owned “The Inn Between” bar in the 70’s and 80’s on the corner of 207th st & sherman ave. Great Memories…mostly of the softball games!

Does anyone remember Bob Byrnes Bar on the corner of Arden St and Sherman Ave? During the spring and summer , the patrons would also play stickball along Sherman Ave next to the telephone company building. What a dramatic difference the neighborhood has become now….

Does anyone know when the Inwood Lounge went out of business? Use to go there in the late 60’s, good times until four years in the Navy got in the way.

I worked at Miramar Swimming Pool and used to go to Farrell’s to get stuff for the kitchen when we ran out of it…
I frequented Gary Owens, Inwood Lounge and some others…perhaps too many times!!!
LOL!

My Dad, George McFadden, owned the Inwood Lounge and I have great memories of it although I was just a kid. The names I remember – Edna the hatcheck girl, Jimmy Dowling was the porter, Pat McBride was the chef, Joe Spillane at the door, Vinnie Foley and the Gents. After the Lounge closed in the early 70s (?) my Dad opened McFadden’s Tavern at 231st and BWay next to the OTB. Would love to see any pictures anyone has of these places.

Jeanne G
Thanks for the memories of Markey’s. My hangout back in the late 50’s.
Glen & Charlie, you’re right, best hamburgers I ever tasted.
I heard that Dan darby had passed away – is that true?

There were six bars between our little streets of arden and thayer. Bob Burns did most of his business before the late mass at Queen of Martyrs. Fr. O’connor was known to pop in and threaten slakers who didn’t clear out for the opening bell at mass. Every Sunday a group of guys who worked for Sanitation and hungout at McGouldricks, cleared out lower arden and played stickball. The Park Gate was where George Lynch sr.worked and then the best bartender of all time George Lynch jr. got his start. We brought $.10 cents a w eek to OLQM for dance class from Ms.Dugan . She had lunch everyday at Markey’s and got tanked for her afternoon classes. I remember word got out that Sal Maglie was coming to the Wig Wam .There were a hundred kids packed outside when he showed up .I stuck a little piece of paper through the little window on the side and got his autograph.I forget the name of the bar on the bottom of thayer but it was beautiful inside . Word had it that way back in the day it was a popular hangout for baseball players who drove up on the speedway from Yankee stadium and the Polo Grounds. My only memory of The Lakes of Killarney was in its fading days during the Eighties when I owned Jeannie Cambells Irish Shop on broadwayand its owner Pete Sheridan came to get his Irish paper. He was a wonderful sweet fellow and a big IRA supporter at the time

Does anyone remember the bar that was around the corner from the Inwood lounge, it was called daily and sheridans. I lived across the street, ay 578 academy street My family were the supers of the building. I was underage but we would get in and play pool in the little side room they had. Oh! and also how about GANDY’S in back of the in wood lounge, I remember we had dug under ground forts there and on a saturday or sunday, on many occasions we would find under garments from the girls from the Lounge and sometimes we would find pocket books and wallets with money still left in them. AH!!! THOSE TRULY WERE GREAT MEMORIES OF A GREAT CHILDHOOD IN THE GREAT INWOOD OF OUR TIME!!!!

I grew up on W 238th Street in the Bronx, but am considered “honorary Inwood” because by godfather was the late Barney Bott, who lived at 32 Arden Street. I think Barney regularly visited up to 10-12 Inwood pubs a day…always one…two and o-u-t! and then on to the next one. You could set your clock by his ins and outs.

Great memories, thanks! Here’s something that I wrote about the bar scene a few years ago. I hope that you enjoy it.

UNDERAGE DRINKING IN INWOOD

Grippo’s, which was on the north side of 207th between Vermilyea and Broadway, was another great place for underage drinking, at least up until a point in the summer of 1959. Brian McDonough and I, after having previously passed some phony proof (most likely baptismal certificates, with the date altered with the help of Clorox) to John the Bartender, became regulars at the bar for several months that summer.

It was a warm summer night and Brian and I were enjoying our cold draft Schaeffer’s, Grippo’s great air conditioning and wonderful jukebox (Theresa Brewer, et.al.) and, of course, John’s regular buyback on the third, when the dreaded ABC inspectors arrived on the scene. I remember it very clearly; I was 16 and big for my age and Brian was 15 and even bigger. One ABC guy stood by the door, barring any desperate attempts at escape, while the other began at the end nearest the door and began working his way down the bar.

Brian and I quickly assessed the situation and decided that it was smarter to say we had left our proof at home, rather than show them the phonies. In the meantime, John the bartender, having assayed the scene and determined that he was okay as only “regulars” were there, leaned against the back bar and watched the ABC guy move on down the line.

No problems, until he got to Brian! Needless to say, all eyes, including John’s were now on us, the last ones to be checked. I had a direct view of John’s face and cannot describe the look of incredulity that came over it, as Brian was asked for his proof, mumbled some lame excuse and was asked to stand up and step away from the bar while the ABC guy moved on to me. That was the last time I saw John the bartender, for I couldn’t look him in the eye as Brian and I were led out the door in ignominy.
We didn’t know what to expect, but were to become very old in the next 15 minutes. First we were taken to their car and were made to sit in the back, while they asked us all sorts of questions: how long were we in the bar – just got there; did we go there often – first time; were we asked for proof – they had us there, had to say no; were our parents home so they that they could take us there and tell them what we were doing – nope, nobody home.

After that, one of them went back inside. He came out a few minutes later and told his partner that everything was okay. They then proceeded to give us a stern lecture on the evils of underage drinking, warned us to stay out of the bars and told us we were free to go.

With great relief we got out of the car and headed for the safety of the park, trying to figure out what had just happened, and why we weren’t on our way down to the 34th. Then we had our epiphany, the wheels of government had just been greased! Our idealistic attitudes about government were instantly crushed, and we never went back to Grippo’s, even after we were legal.

Richard M. Scarlata
March 29, 2000

Yes, it was Daly and Sheridans on Academy St (between Sherm and Post) the bar was Nunzies in the 40’s and 50’s,,No one looked up when you entered, they were too soused to raise their heads..No one in this article mentioned Barrys’ on Sherman (between Academy and Dyckman, near Horn and Hardarts.. Sam’s was the preferred imbibing palace for me and then we’d go to Chambers (Isham and 207th) on Sherman Ave or should I say Amya, yeah, that’s it Moe, Amya,,woo wooo wooo nyuk nyuk nyuk,, No one including my father could pronounce “Avenue”

How about SAM’S bar on the corner of Sherman and 204th ST. A couple of nice old ladies invited myself, GARY K and TOMMY O up for breakfast around 4:30 a.m. after SAMS finally got rid of us. They lived right around the corner on 204th. IT was a night to remember, just ask GARY K lol

I tried to buy my wife her first”LEGAL” drink when she turned 18 at Markey’s but Charlie wouldn’t serve her because she didn’t have her birth certificate with her.My favorite spot to stop off was the Park View(Knudsen’s)where Marie,the owner,would make me a hamberger before I drove back home to NJ.There was no finer place to grow up than INWOOD.PS George Lynch a good bartender who knew everyone and never smoked died of lung cancer.Graduate of OLQM Class of 1949

When I was a kid it was the Tally Ho which later became the Old Shilling. Also, before the Inwood Lounge it was the Homestead. Rodney Dangerfield appeared there before he hit it big.

Inwood was great even for us Tolentine guys & girls. drinking at the Blast at 16 and the Inn Between Happy Hr 2-1 with 4 backed up at 7 Jim Rayhill was a good guy. The lady”s of Inwood was always nice must have been the Bx charm the St Nick’s gentlemen showed lol

Ruthie Morrisey sang at the Old Schilling and was one of the owners. I also remember Vinny Foley (of the Gents) getting arrested because he was going to Bimani to defend Adam Claton Powell. George McFadden also owned a bar off Westchester Sq with his Nephew Steve who now has a famous Pub in Mahattan by the Daily News Building (Ryan & McFaddens). Willie Walsh (The Whale) passed away last year. What ever happened to Rory ? I was great friends with all of them including Joe Spillane Jack Chambers & of Course Pete McKenext to (remember the bar with the tree in the middle) And some might remember the Fife & Drum in the North Bronx which I owned, GREAT TIMES & GREAT MEMORIES forgot to mention Richie Tinker

Inwood – what a place! We would go to the Good Sherpherd dances and I would do the savoy with a guy named Matty Devine. He was a fabulous dancer. I dated a guy named Phil Sullivan from Inwood.
The Inwood Lounge was the spot to go on Sunday nights. What a blast! I had my first dance with my future husband at the Tally Ho. What a great neighborhood it used to be. I’m from Kingsbridge which was also great!

I also went to the dances at Good Shepherd and to Inwood Lounge with my friend Betty and others. Attended SHM up on the hill. What good times we had.

Took the buses from 204th & Bainbridge Av over to Inwood with our phony proof all set to be inspected & approved by the bouncer Mr. Spillane after we would wait on line to get into the Lounge. We got in everytime even when the nameplate around our neck didn’t match the name on our cloroxed w milk baptismal certificate! It was fabulous! Vinny Foley singing “Roll a Silver Dollar “, savoying, madras, mini skirts, SUNDAY Ladies Night and always using our cover ticket for the free drink! Thurs at Ray’s In-between, 10cent drinks for ladies, who rarely made it to work on Fridays. The Ponytail, Chambers, Docs and, of course, the Pig n’Whistle w Gerard Dunne bartending. And, I not only had great times in Inwood, I met my husband right there in the Lounge! He seems to think it was in the Pig n’Whistle! Details!!! Great great times & memories!

HOW ABOUT GALLAGHERS ON THE CORNER OF POST AND DYCKMAN AND THE GREEN KITCHEN, RENAMED BARONE’S, ON THE CORNER OF NAGLE AND DYCKMAN. MY BROTHER ED CLARKE BARTENDED THERE FOR YEARS!

Being born and raised on 207 st. & Bway. I had the oppertunity to have a pint in most of the great places of worship mentioned above. How abouth “The Bunch of Grapes”
on 207 just east of Sherman and “The Wrong Number” on 10th. ave. I met my wife of 48 years in Garry Owens on Dyckman St. It was owned by Gene McCormick and Harry McShane. Great-Great memories. We are all fortunate to have experianced them.

Chambers was at SHERMAN Ave & ISHAM ST. Jack Chambers paid the rent for the people living above the bar because of the noise on the week end.

Thanks for the memories!! I worked at The White Horse which then turned into the Wrong Number for many years down on 214th and 10th Ave. I didnt see a mantion of Ray Vans Nest Bway and 215th st. Great bar with super people. The place to go late 60’s early 70’s.

We went to Chambers many a’nite…..so much that we didn’t have to wait on the line….just walked up gave the thumbs up and in we went….the music and the crowd was great…..had many a beer with the Guys….Phil Lynch…..Bobby Fink…..Larry Kangro

I had the pleasure (I think) of walking the beat on 207st in the mid sixties. There was enough going on on the midnight tours to keep me going but because they were my own kind I would look the other way at times, But when the bars closed I had to position myself in front of the capital diner on Broadway and 207 st , where all the drunks went and sometimes tried to wreck the place Ah The Good Old Days!

Loved Chambers. Our gang hung out there and Georgie Lynch was our favorite bartender. Also went to Harry McShane’s Garryowens, Barry’s, the Pig ‘n Whistle (Pete McGee’s place) and the Inwood Lounge. Great times!

I still remember going up and down 207th street on one side and coming back up the other visiting all the Irish bars. It was a great neighborhood and Inwood Hill Park was a great place to play ball and hang out with the gang.

Anyone remember Nunzie’s on academy st?
Off Post ave
My grandparents sat for me & my brother in the 50’s at 65 Post
And Grampa often had to be retrieved from there
I think child care then was letting us run rampant on the “white rocks”

Attending Fordham university graduate school was a short course in fun and dancing to the Black. Velvet Band at that Hitching Post. Lots of fun and partying.

I grew up directly across from good shepherd. Worked at mahoney’s where many six packs were stolen. McSherry’s was a bit too close for my dad though-shot and a beer!!!

my first memories of drinking in a bar was Garryowens in the late 1960s. We would drive in from Jersey and go up there and and would sit around feeling great to be drinking pitchers of beer when not a one of us had reached the age of 18 although we had some crappy Ids. I believe mine was a drivers license from Wisconsin for a 38 year from Milwaukee. Even had pitchers of Sloe gin fizzs for about $2.50.

After graduating from CCNY, our favorite bar, The Vinegar Hill relocated from Amsterdam Ave. to 214th St. It was run by three brothers, Ed. Atrie and Rodney Guy

Martin Reynolds, thats a blast from the past. Saw your post, just wanted to say hello and hope all you family is well. Dave Rourke from 252 Sherman Ave.

What great memories of Inwood Park, Garryowens and the Sloop!

My little brother Phil worked at the Rac/Aechies pub when he was only 16. Someone blew the whistle on him, but Archie told phil as soon as you rerach 18 come back and he did. My little bro would get me laid some times. especially when I came home from the service. What great times. i lived on 207th and Vermilyea. Only recently moved out last Dec. I am not far away though. Still hang out at Litty II, Kilt and Irish eyes, Still here after all these years.

My brother phil, Tim Slain, Eddie ? ands Dennis Becker we had a group. We had a few names Blue Seekers, Dirt, Street Corner Society. LOL We actually sang at the wrong number and a few other places in 1969. We had a ball there. We also auditioned at the Inwood Lounge, but my brother got pissed off because on drunk patron was giving us advice. Phill didn;t like it and packed up his drums and walked out. What a bumma LOL

Bobby T.from 9/29/12
I saw your post, I too was very good friends with the three guys you mentioned. I just can’t figure out who you are? (Bobby T.)Get back to me at my email address.

“Pass the sugar” was the trip word for an all out brawl at Bickfords (B’way & Dyckman) The sugar jar was torpedoes to you from one of the other gang members..The police were called and 2 squad cars would sit outside until the fray ceased..No one has mentioned Sam’s Bar Sherman Ave between Academy and 204th St,,That was where Tom and Lou were the best bartenders in the neighborhood..Inwood was the”THE BEST” and I’d give a million dollars to back there and relive it..I lived at 121 Sherman and didn’t walk far to have a beer,,Daly and Sheridans, Barry’s, Wigwam, Inwood Lounge, Pig & Whistle, Barones and my watering hole Sams’ .

Not one word about the best bar in Inwood, Sams! BTW, Fred Niemczenia, The Vinegar Hill was on 215St.!

the pig & whistle

the pig& whistle

The Inwood lounge, where Larry Chance and the Earls signed to do
a two week stint and stayed for two years.
How did I ever drive home to The Bronx from that place ?

Ah . .the memories of when I was a teenager. My friends and I would hang out on “2-4th” which was the corner of 204th Street and Broadway before heading out to either Garryowens, “slipping” at the Sloop because by the end of the night the floor was a slippery beer / alcohol mess, or at Doc Fiddler’s where we use to go hear “Alive N Kicking”. The band which I had at my wedding decades later but sounded just as great! We were 16 and 17 years old at then and had the time of our lives!!

I remember them well and was barred from most. Fond memories of basil at nugants.

I worked at the Inn Between at 207th and Sherman for a number of years. It was originally called Ray’s but when the owner Jimmy Rayhill decided to change the name he named it the Inn Between because it was the inn between Garry Owens, Chamber’s, Doc Fiddlers, The and the Inwood Lounge, Sam’s, Bunch of Grapes, Sloop John and the Blarney Star. What memories

When I was 16 I joined the soft ball team at the Inn Between so Ray and the other bartenders would know me. This way I could get in without getting proofed.

I cant forget hanging out at Lou Browns pool room on Vermilyea near Dyckman, and playing softball in the bar league for either Inwood Bar or Garryowens and playing fgootball for the Terriers and softball and stickball in the PS52 shoolyard and basketball against Good Shephard and hitch-hiking up to GW High. Sports melded the Irish, the Jews and the Greeks together.

Can’t believe Barone’s Bar hasn’t been mentioned! It was on the corner of Nagle and Dyckman. As kids my friends and I would sneak in to use the bathroom, years later would watch sporting events and drink like the old timers did. I think its a bodega or restaurant now. I live in Delaware now.

I remember dancing at Doc’s with my friends to the jukebox music and Tommy Coughlin saying, “girls, girls, no dancing – I don’t have a cabaret license!” Also, I remember the last night at Doc’s before they moved up to Riverdale and the jukebox sitting out on the sidewalk playing “sooner or later.” Doc Fiddlers then became The Red Barrel. So many fond memories of Doc’s, Chambers and The Sloop and most of the places named!

My uncle John Manca, owned the Inn Between for a while it was nice and quiet in the day and at night wild and crazy.They had some good soft ball players in Bars in Inwood and John Manka, could hit the ball so far,good times.It was just the great all around the mm,

I like your history of Irish Inwood.The picture of the Donemay Pub 1979 New Years was the first time I played music.God Bless those days. Martin Melody

My favorite was the “Hitching Post” back in the days..Up there dancing with all my friends. Linda, Kathy, Barbara C. etc. we had a blast!

Does anybody remember the name of the pub on the corner of Post ave and Dyckman st.I spent time in there the night before my wedding October 5th 1957.

Please the name of bar on corner of Post and Dyckman in 1957

Does anyone remember the old Inwood Newspaper that was out in the 70’s? Please let me know…
Thanks,
Billy

Inwood hieghts newspaper

Where was Doc Fiddler’s located

McMullen, your poem was right on. Loved it.

The Pub on the corner of Vermilyea & Dyckman-one name I remember “Denwins”
operated by john Simkins.

gary knight mentioned Sam’s, my home from 1968 thru 1971.
Run by the Palazzo brothers, Tony & Lou.
Bartenders were Billy Martin and Jimmy Wyatt.
Great great times, and the Tolentine crowd supported them.

I remember the Inn Between and Inwood Lounge….walked across the bridge from the Bronx to get there. Accepted ID was a birth certificate…so one person could go in with a drivers license and another a few minutes later with a birth certificate …same name but no one cared.

I was a bouncer at The Blast, The Bunch of Grapes, Doc Fiddlers and tended bar at The Sloop before really leaving Inwood. Then I worked in many clubs in different areas of NY and NJ and ended up working a bunch of clubs in the Hamptons. Inwood was very good schooling for that career.

I love catching up on the new posts here. Lived in Inwood 68 to 77. Can say I re cognize almost all the pubs of the area. Remember buying my Mom a fine China Irish Teacup from Jeannie Campbells Irish Shop maybe Mothers day 1969. I now have this. Worked making egg creams at Harry’s on Tenth Ave and 207th.
Class of 1970 OLQM. Remember too all the St Jude end of summer Bazaars. Good times. Great people.

My Dad, Dave Russo, tended bar in many of the bars in Inwood during the 50’s and 60’s. For him, it was a part-time job that helped supplement the family income when he drove a truck during the day for Nabisco. He enjoyed it a lot. We lived on Sherman near the Wigwam, which was where he’d go – sometimes with my mother.

Garry Knight- regarding Nunzie’s- was owned by Nunzio LaMiraglia and his son, Rocco. My Dad also tended bar there also. And if my parents went there, we’d play outside. The bartenders always wore white shirts and ties and white aprons. Rocco and my Dad were good friends and the families would spend time together on occasion.

The bar on the Dykman and post was Denwins Tavern . I lived at 34 Post ave. Strange no mention of the Tally Ho . Post and 207th and 10th ave. it was the whole triamgular corner. Sam’s was caddy corner to it . Mirimar just down the street. Also no mention of the Starboard Side just around the corner on 10th and 206th st and E&G’s right across the street on the W side of 10th ave . We had our pigeon coop up on the Inwood Loung’s roof. Great neighborhood !

Loved the 60″s and 70″s in inwood.

Barone’s was the best Italian place in Inwood. The Blarney Stone and Cahills (Mrs Cahill) on 207th between Post and Sherman ave. How about the E&G on 204th and 10th Ave? My father and later I tended bar there when I was home on weekends from the Air Force.

I worked for the Heights-Inwood newspaper in 1975 as an intern. Interesting times… lead-up to the Bicentennial.

Inwood was great fun back in the late 60’s thru 70’s. I can still remember hanging out @ Sam’s Tavern watching the NY Knicks playing the 7 the game for the championship. They had a great jukebox. And somebody would drop a much of quarters in to listen to: He ain’t heavy, He’s my brother!

What was the name of the bar across from The Tara Gift Shop on 207th St Thanks

Does anyone remember the time when my mother and father had the store at 4986 Broadway ?

Thank’s for mentioning Sam’s Tavern. That’s where you would take a girl, after up
just picked her-up @ the Inwood Lounge. The old Lady in the back area was May , a very sweet old lady. Thank you all for great memories. I lived on Seaman Ave. between
207th & Payson Ave.

The “Inn Between”!!! 😉

Went to all those bars. Inwood was the best loved growing up there

No one mentioned Charlies on 207th street. A little island. rough crowd

Sam’s Tavern was the best and thanks for remembering. The owners/bartenders were brothers Tony & Louie Palazzo. I called them Uncle Tony & Louie. They were my father’s first cousins.

If anybody has pictures of Sams Tavern could you please post them or e-mail them to me

How about Patrick’s on Dyckman St. between B’way and Seaman, and Coffey’s on Dyckman next between the diner on the corner of Broadway and the Alpine Theater. Also Goode’s on Broadway between Academy and 204th. They were quiet little places, but with friendly bartenders all ready with a buy-back on every third drink. Barone’s on Dyckman at the corner of Nagle Ave was another good place.

Had many a happy night at the Park Gate on Arden Street. I remember we had a moon keg with a 10 ft. hero the night man first walked on the moon.

Now living in the Sunny Treasure Coast of Florida, the Inwood Lounge, was my
favorite stomping ground, starting going there at the age of 17, was there from
Thurs. – Sat. most times, Irish Moms & their Sons, they trusted us at every word
from our mouths. The Bands that played there, Bleach Boys, ( if you were outside
you’d swear that CHICAGO, was playing, that good ) can’t remember one other
Band, they made it to the Big Time, couple of albums, great music, I think the lead
singer, was female. They checked you at the Door for ID, after awhile, when you
became a Regular, no ID , front Bartender, Jimmy Sheridan, Great Guy, miss Ole Days

Anyone have a picture of Mister’s bar?

Does anyone have a photo of Misterso’s bar?

On the night of 2/21/1962, three of us met our future wives in the Inwood Lounge….a bunch of student nurses from St Vincent’s were there dancing the night away..of course, it was the savoy!
I asked one of them, a gal by the name of Kathryn Simpson to dance…that was it…we celebrate our 50th wedding anniversary this coming September 11th! Time flies!

I believe that during my Inwood Time there were 74 bars ( rough estimate ). The bet was starting up at Columbia and drinking a shot, just a shot, of beer in every bar to GO’s. Not easy to do.
No one mentioned big Gene Coughlin, about the most unpredictable hard assed BT ever.
Learned a lot in those gin mills and met my wife at the Inwood Lounge where we spent serious time along with the Pig N’ Whistle, that is when we were not a home base GO’s.

DO YOU KNOW WHERE ” THE HOMESTEAD ” WAS ?

Any body remember the band Street Stuff? They played at the Melody Lounge, The Old Shilling, the Wagon Wheel. Great dance band! Great memories. Hanging out at Guys and Dolls on 207th St. & 10th Ave, playing Pool and Pinball.

This is great, I grew up on the border of Inwood Washington Heights Our Lady Queen of Martyrs! God Bless the Greatest generation! Our parents! Now the city is shi shi, sucks.

My Father and Uncles and Aunts loved the Inwood scene. We lived on Academy St. And my Uncle and Aunt lived on 215th right down from the Donemay. I remember dancing with my Aunt jean there and her introducing me to the lovely daughters of her friends when I would come to visit. They don’t make people like that anymore. i surely miss them.

Vis-a-vis one of the comments in your poem about Jewish guys not drinking–as someone who grew up in the ’70s, I can testify that Jewish kids, too, drank and went to bars. The difference is that we didn’t necessarily go to neighborhood bars–many of us went to bars “Downtown,” for example. One reason is that many of the Jewish kids tended to go away to college, and the groups that formed there weren’t from one neighborhood–for example, one was from Yonkers, one from Washington Heights, one from Flushing, one from Long Beach, etc., etc., so when we get together in the summer, we went to a place that was convenient to everybody. But up at SUNY Binghamton, my crowd, which was maybe 80 percent Jewish, often got together in the “Pub” to hoist a few. One thing may be that for my own Jewish-and-Italian crowd, drinking (almost always beer) was something to accompany another activity–a rock concert, a movie, a baseball game–not an activity for its own sake.

Now, we all remember that the Pig n Whistle was right next to the Lounge, but who remembers what it was called before that? It was called Donovan’s. It was a classic old man’s bar, on its way out. The legend was that The Babe used to drink there.
My friends and I would go in there on Friday and Saturday nights before hitting the Lounge. There was no tree there then and we never got Id’d. At the time I was living on 185th & Broadway and the local bar where we (and some of our parents) hung out was Magees on 184th and Broadway which was owned by Pat and Katie Magee; Pete Magee’s uncle and aunt.
I remember all of the bars mentioned above and the memories are all good and mostly very funny!
Washington Heights (St. Elizabeth’s) was a great place to grow up. But Inwood is where all the great memories are. I live in SW Florida now,but for the last half hour I have been 700 miles away and 50 years younger. Thanks!

i grew up in Inwood, 229 Seaman Ave, and i went to Good Shepherd the class of 57 before i forget theres a great video on You Tube “Good by Glocammora (1968)” a documentary that was made for Irish public TV focusing on the changing demographic of Inwood the quintessential Irish neighborhood in NYC …this a real trip down memory lane for me… the the old shilling pub i took my father in there to hear Wolf Tones it was their first gig in USA…Someone had mentioned Ryan’s and Mc Faddens i know Steve and went to school with Joey…How about Kelly’s Bar 215st Bway or the Emerald Isle on 207st and Vermiyea ave i was 15 and got my first of many beer in there… i used hang on the corner of 207st and Vermiyea Romans Deli, with Johnny Muldoon, Paddy & John Carr, Mickey Connelly, Brian Heary.etc oh the Girls Linda Tate,Cushy Kelly, Mary Mc Kenna, Mary Connelly, Renee Nesbit, O’Brien Girls, Whinny Quinn…the Inwood Boat ride we were escorted of the boat in Yonkers by the State and local police ….Thanks it’s been great…Vermilyea i don’t think i spelled right sorry!

I use to go the Starboard Side in the early 70’s. There was another bar across the street that had some nice bands from time to time but I don’t remember the name. Does anyone there remember? I also use to regularly go the Inbetween :^D It was great neighborhood!

I went to Sams Tavern in the early 70’s – to drink- I was underage drinker , There were many of us. Drinking age was 18. I miss those days .

Does anyone know of or remember a bartender/bar owner by the name of John O’Connor? He was the brother of my grandfather William and I am trying to find out where he worked. Thanks!

Moved to Inwood in 1955 and wouldn’t change a thing. The friends we made were forever. I lived in the Dyckman Houses and never worried about walking home from the bars at 2-3 in the a.m.
The bars were great fun, but so was the Capital Diner on Bway n 207th and Bickfords
After the bars. Remember Pete McGee trying to drive his VW into the front door of Bickfords and Artie Burns loosing all the salt and pepper shakers. Lol.

Hi there, I’m trying to find some history about my grandfather, who was a bartender in Inwood, somewhere between in the 1950s-1960s. His name was Joe Gallagher. If you have any information or memories you would like to share, I would love to hear them! Thank you.

Tom Desmond(Desi) here: Many great memories re Bars of Inwood – my place was Barones best owners Louie and best bartender: Angelo! I remember one Saturday with my best friend Herb Krupp deciding we would try to hi every bar in Inwood and have one beer in same; we never bothered to count how many bars there were and

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How great to see this post and all of the wonderful comments!

My Dad, Artie Donovan was born and raised in Inwood and tended bar at Dolan’s Tavern for decades (and also at the Riverdale Inn) from the 40’s through the late 60’s, if memory serves me correctly. The photo of the “Hedgehog Inn’ certainly looks like where Dolan’s once existed.

My Dad’s family- his sisters, Mom and his brother-in-law’s family, The Scalley’s lived right upstairs in the apartment building above.

Inwood was a terrific neighborhood! As a young lad, I remember “goin’ bouncing” with my Dad to visit his freinds at the local bars on Sunday afternoons and these bars were family/friend meeting places back then. Grandmother’s and little grandkids were a common fixture as much as the Irish wire lathers and their hard drinking cronies. Also, everybody had nick names back then- “Eddy the Bus”, etc. (The gloss of childhood memories certainly colors my details here, but that’s what I remember).

But tavers were different than they are now. They were like little cultural institutions that served the entire neighborhood.

Oh, yeah… I almost drowned at Miramar pool in the early 60’s- which is embarrassing to admit, as my Dad used to lifeguard there and would regularly swim across the Hudson to Jersey!

Best Wishes to All Those from the old neighborhood!

Art Jr.

I moved to here Inwood in 1989 when I was 27. Never thought about the bars that much until I ran across your website. In rough order I remember Keenan’s at 204th Street, Last Stop on 207th Street-had their burger and a beer once, Piper’s Kilt on Bway & 207–had their burger and a brew several times, went to the Liffy once very late after coming home from a Florida trip, came up on the A train from Penn Station and ALL the bodegas were closed. Got a 6 pack of Budweisers to go, very cool. Also, there was a place where Brown Sugar is now at 215th & Bway-can’t remember the name and another bar that was sort of closed on 215th & 10th Avenue right under the 1 train El. It said Vinegar and something on the sign-would pass it everyday getting the train to work. Now we have Tubby’s Hook where Pipers was, I hope they reopen soon as this Convid virus thing is over. Love your website Cole, please keep it up.

Great memories. My Irish family would always gather at Knudson’s Park View tavern after first Holy Communions/birthdays and holidays. We went to Our Lady Queen of Martyrs school up the street. All my aunts and uncle would gather there, with cousins and friends. My grandfather owned Carr’s Moving and storage company just a block south, and he had an Irish heart of gold, always helping out people in dire straights. A heavy drinking Irish clan. Occasionally Father O’Conner would come by and give well wishes, diminishing the number of drinks served for a time, and some customers would leave, probably feeling guilty. My brother Garry and I would sit in the dining area and be bought countless cokes and free pretzels, being 9 and 10 years old. I remember my cousin Billy Carr, who had a fabulous voice, singing there, at a large family gathering in the dining room. Great memories.

Remembering My classmate, Michael McGoldrick, Graduating class 1959 Good Sherpherd. This Thursday,
April 16, Will mark the Day Michael Was Killed IN Vietnam, April 16th 1966. He was 20 Years old. I still miss Him. I am Tom Fahy.

From way over on Archer Street/St. Anthony’s in the Bronx, we would drive over to the Long Valley Pub for the Ranger/Islander playoff games in the late 70s and early 80s. Why? The Bronx did not yet have cable T.V., and to watch the games you had to go into Manhattan to see them. I remember the 207 St. Bridge being packed with cars filled with hockey fans heading back to the Bronx after the game ended.

Mike mitchell donemay

Does anyone remember a bartender named Tom Carroll and what bar he worked in?

no one ever mentions The Wigwam on the corner of Thayer & Sherman.
It was owned by Joe Diana. Hung out there in the late 50’s

Hey all,

Was trying to think of the name of a bar that was on 231st in Kingsbridge. Closed up probably mid 90s. Next to Chase bank. Was where Popeye’s is now.
On the north side of the street, heading towards Kingsbridge ave. Anyone know? Same street as Ehrings if people remember that one.
Thanks!

Does anybody remember the TERMINAL bar? My dad Eddie Maguire worked here late 60’s early 70’s??????? He said it was the last stop of the subway… he lived on bailey avenue with my mother and brother. He was a football and is 78 now alive and well back in Ireland

Meant he was a footballer 🙂

does anyone remember Mullins Bar on Broadway between 204 and 207th streets?

Richard Thestrup I used to hangout in Chambers, mostly at the rear bar. Met a lot of great girls there. (Irish catholic) I used to be the bouncer at the Inn Between. Great training for my future in the NYC Dept of Correction. Great memories of the old Neighborhood. Now live on Smithtown, Long Island.

Does anyone have a picture of the INN Between (bar on corner of 207 St & Sherman Ave) or of the far wall of the Miramar swimming pool? Im creating a diaroma of 1960s Inwood in memory of my parents, Al Porterfield and Ruth Jane Taylor.

No mention of the Inn Between on Sherman Ave

I was raised in Inwood and I have a question about the Flagpole on Sherman Ave. and Isham St.
it is still there, is it being used. In the 1970’s Chambers collected money from many people in
the neighborhood to erect the Flagpole to Honor our Fallen Hero’s who died in Vietnam.

Terminal bar under the el at 242nd and Bway? There are others. Mike Cooney was the manager In the 60’s and 70’s. I worked in the Pinewood, just south of the terminal. I knew an Eddie that worked there. Maybe a soccer player. He talked about trying out as a kicker for football. Maybe the Giants. My name is Larry. I used to go in there after the Pinewood closed. Cullen and Breslin’s bar was north of the Terminal.

Terminal Bar was a tough place. Irish hurlers, soccer players, etc Mike Cooney would throw you out in a minute. I knew his bartender wanted to play American football. A kicker, I think. Don’t remember his name for sure.

Where is the Pub mentioned in “THE GREATEST BEER RUN EVER”

Inwood and its bars have a special place in my heart.

The bar on the corner at 10th Avenue & 207th street was Cove I think it had a first name but I can’t think of it.

What about the Moosehead Tavern, around 189th St.?

What about the “The Inwood Lounge “.
Johnny Ryan was the bartender a pretty swanky place back then..

I grew up on 211th street and remember almost all of these fine establishments. The bar next to the Inwood Lounge was called Wilds in the 50’s. My father used to bring me there. All the regulars would order machirsino cherries and give them to me I was 4 at the time. There was a tree in the middle of the place. After I got out of the Air Force I worked for Mike McSherry covering shifts in all his places but mostly Uee’s on 207th.

I’m doing research on Fort George Amusement Park. Does anyone know anything about the Speedway Hotel?

I grew up in ginwood on Beak st n Payson ave ! Across from payson park was the Bucket of blood where the Teenagers hung out ! I would go to Fays or Mc sherrys w my dad n gpa after my dad would pick me up from my gps house on 212th I went to ps 98 ! I played in the phone booth n drank Shirley temple’s and when they finished their second martini we would go home n leave my grandfather to walk( stumble home) ! As I grew up my girl friends and I would go to track down their dads at their favorite bars and mooch money from them ! My gf Leslie Fentons dad ran the Bowling ally on Dyckman ! We spent many a winter afternoon there! The playground and payson park was our spot to play basketball and other games ! Gary Owens and the sloop was where at 15 we would go and Drink like we were grown ! The memories are faint but the friendships aren’t! The Fentons the Ryan’s And many others I still keep in touch with god bless Inwood keep her in our Hearts for life ! Ps my mom 99.8 years old still living there Payson ave ! 👍🎉🌀

I was going into the Navy in 1964,enlisting while at Hayes.So I needed some partying to do before I went on active duty.The inwood lounge was good for me with the fun time and “Vinny Foley and The Gents” were good for my ears.What happened to the with the tree in the bar,next to the lounge. Is the new Inwood Bar & Grill at the same location as the Original Inwood Lounge ? Thanks All the tales that people submitted were OUTSTANDING ! thanks,again

True, hey BILLY IN THE AIR FORCE ITS J.T. DOWNEY PARK TERRACE GREAT TO SEE UR WITH US GOD BLESS SAY HELLO TO EDDIE CORLISS AND MAUREEN 🙏🙏🙏

While doing some reading about the upcoming movie I came across this great site. I am the son in law of Gene McCormack of Gary Owens fame. To those who do not know – Gene passed about 6 years ago. Gene loved his Inwood roots and he shared many great bar, stickball and other stories about growing up in Inwood. Best to all from his Riverdale son in law.

The bar across 10th Avenue from The Starboard Side was E&Gs. Great times back in the late 60s. Joe Namath had the upper East side of Manhattan but every teenager in the tristate area had Northern Manhattan. New Jersey and Connecticut kids would also show up. The streets were packed with kids, sometimes fighting, but I never heard a gunshot during the hundreds of weekend nights we enjoyed back in the days while waiting for the “Greetings” letter from our Uncle Sam. God Bless America!

Mike Cullinan- I just saw the movie, October 2022 on Apple+Tv. It was great to remember the War and Inwood’s link. I just finished the book and it is even better, adding more local flavor as well as more perceptive views of how Chickie’s view of the war changed. Me and my buddy, Donald Sullivan, would go from our homes in Jackson Heights to Chambers on Fridays and Doc Fiddlers on Sunday afternoons, and go down to the Inwood Lunge to shout the right answerrs to the kids on College Bowl. From October 1966 to Octiber 77 I dated Kathleen Sissy O’Sullivan, who lived right around the corner , SW of Sherman and Isham. Anyone know what happened to her or her brothers? Our main connection was from Rockaway Beach. Maggie McGoldrick was part of our beach crowd. Her little brother, Tommy, died in Nam, RIP, and is listed in the back of the Beer Run book. PS- Donald and I went in in 1964 and got out, thank God, in June of 66, just as the war was exploding.

Anyone here who went to OLQM, Our Lady Queen of Martyrs during the 60’s?
I attended from 1962, graduated in June 1969.

Jim – I thought the book & movie were great also. In May of 1966 I was on leave so I
went to Garry Owens for a few. so the bartender sees me and my very short haircut
and say’s are you in the military. So I say yes. The bartender was the Colonel George
Lynch. He bought me beers for the rest of the night on the house. I told him I was
heading to Vietnam the following Monday and when I was leaving he shook my hand
and wished me luck. I came home in May 1967. I went to Doc Fiddlers and saw George
again and like you Iwas just glad to be home in Inwood.

Jim – I read the book and saw the movie, both were great
In May 1966 I was home on leave from the Army and I
wanted to go out and get a few beers in the neighborhood
so I headed for Garry Owens. In another three days I was
heading to Vietnam. I got to the bar and asked the bar
tender for a beer. He looked at me as he was pouring it and
said are you in the military. I guess he saw my very short
haircut and I said yes I am. I told him in three days I was
going to Vietnam. He would not let me pay for a beer at
all. After that, they were all on the house. The bartender
was the Colonel – George Lynch. I was there for a number
of hours. When I was leaving the Colonel shook my hand
and wished me luck. In May 1967 when I returned I went
to Doc Fiddlers and I saw George, I told him I just got
back He cared about everyone from Inwood who were
in the service. It was great to be home again.

Does anyone remember the Lakes of Killarney Bar ?

I grew up on Vermilyea and my teenage years were in the 80s so I did my (underage) drinking in Liffey II mainly, Donemay, Garry Owens and Keenans sometimes, Hedgehog a few times… remember a few early mornings at Lakes of Killarney too. Fondly remember the Liffey bartenders: Tommy (Fridays) and Andy (Saturdays). A few fistfights here and there but all in all fun times in Inwood bars (but some memories a bit fuzzy!)

Does anyone remember John Cahill who I believe grew up on Academy St?
He was a regular at the ValRay Boat Club off the east side of Dykman St.
I’m his son Jim.