The municipal liquor store in my hometown of Vesta, photographed in 2009 at sunset. I’ve always loved the unique tile exterior on this building and the signage.
The small town liquor store or bar rates as more than simply a place to grab a cold one or wolf down bar food.
New Richland watering holes photographed in 2011.
Oftentimes, these rural establishments serve as community gathering spots. Locals belly up to trade stories, talk crops, solve the world’s problems. There’s a certain comfort in that, in the familiarity of sharing gossip and opinions and woes within the confines of a dark space, sheltered from reality.
The seemingly popular Cabin Bar in Nicollet, photographed two years ago.
Sometimes these places remain as the sole business along an otherwise vacant Main Street. On a Friday or Saturday, vehicles line the streets. Folks gather to shoot a little pool, drink a little beer, tell a few jokes.
The Monty Bar, with great vintage signage, anchors a corner of downtown Montgomery.
For awhile, troubles vanish, the body rests, a sense of community togetherness prevails.
Creative graphics for a bar and grill in Kilkenny.
All of this I imagine as I photograph the exteriors of small town Minnesota bars and liquor stores. Unique signage, creative names, architecture and more draw me visually to these watering holes.
The Roadside Bar & Grill is a popular spot in Wabasso, especially during the Tuesday evening “roll-ins” during summer months.
Each holds a story. And if you, a stranger, venture inside, heads will swivel, eyes will bore and the locals will wonder. What is your story?
BONUS BAR PHOTOS:
The Ridin’ High Saloon in Cobden caters to bikers.
Across the street from Ridin’ High, Tubby’s signage draws the eye.
The rather non-descript R & L’s Pit Stop in Hope, photographed in 2011.
Signage aplenty at Old Town Tavern during Morristown’s 2013 Dam Days.
A misguided attempt, in my opinion, to improve the exterior of the West Concord American Legion, photographed in 2010.
This post is cross posted at mnprairieroots.com.