As one of America’s thirteen original colonies, New York’s history goes back centuries. And while we love a good history lesson and a visit to any of our state’s famous historic sites as much as the next person, sometimes we would rather experience that history for ourselves, perhaps with a cold beer in our hand? Not only is NYC’s Landmark Tavern one of the oldest bars in New York State, but it’s also one of the most haunted.
The year is 1968, and Patrick Henry Carley just opened his Irish pub on the waterfront of the Hudson River. Back then, the second and third floors were home to the Carley family, but prohibition eventually forced them to turn the third floor into a speakeasy. The modest saloon catered to thirsty dockworkers and merchant seamen in a neighborhood once populated by mostly Irish immigrants.
The Landmark Tavern/Google
Not only has this popular watering hole retained its classic, old New York charm, but it is also one of the most haunted bars in the state. At least two ghosts reportedly call this bar home.
The Landmark Tavern/Website
The first, a young girl rumored to have died of either cholera or typhoid fever in the 19th century who wanders throughout the building, still thinking that she’s at home — unaware of the bar around her.
Landmark Tavern/Facebook
The second, a Confederate soldier who was stabbed in a knife fight and stumbled upstairs, only to die in a bathtub that’s still there. Guests have reported the ghost knocking over books in the second-floor party room where he died.
Landmark Tavern/Facebook
Though less documented, it is also said that Hollywood tough guy George Raft haunts the Landmark Tavern. Oh, and this now-formal bar was once frequented by the Westies, a violent Hell’s Kitchen gang, in the 1980s. If only walls could talk.
Landmark Tavern/Facebook
Today, the Landmark Tavern is recognized as being one of the oldest, continually operating bars in New York. As soon as you walk through the doors at the Landmark Tavern, you’ll be immediately transported to another era.
The Landmark Tavern/Website
The modern menu is quite expansive and features everything from sandwiches, burgers, and classic bar snacks to salads, steaks, and pastas.
The Landmark Tavern/Website
No matter what you order, be sure to wash it all down with a drink: will you go for a glass of wine, a bottle of beer, whiskey, or signature cocktail? Whether you believe in ghosts or not, you’ll want to visit this historic New York City haunt.
The Landmark Tavern/Website
Address: 626 11th Avenue, New York, NY, 10036.
The Landmark Tavern/Google
The Landmark Tavern/Website
Landmark Tavern/Facebook
The Landmark Tavern is open daily 11:30 a.m. to 2 a.m. For more information, visit their website or follow them on Facebook.
Have you ever been to this historic and haunted bar? Share your experience with us in the comments below/
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