HomeWeelunkHomeTop Ten: Ghost Bars of Wheeling LeeRoy January 31, 2016 167 As we all know, some of Wheeling is often considered 10, 20, or even 30 years “behind the times.” It’s fun to flip things on its head and actually go back a couple of decades to check to see if it’s true. In this experiment we find that a lot of the bars that were the places to be in the 1990s, do not exist anymore. Although some have evolved into something different, some of them have disappeared entirely (or as in one case actually sank in the Ohio River). We give props to the survivors: The Alpha, TJ’s, The Glassworks, and Wakim’s, and we pay tribute to the gone, but not forgotten – the Ghost Bars of Wheeling’s ’90s. Editor’s Note: It’s been 20+ years since we have been to these places, and we probably couldn’t describe them correctly the day after we were there, so please feel free to correct us and fill in the blanks. #10 Capone’s Just off Route 2 in North Warwood, this small club had an outside deck where “anything could happen.” Looks like it’s vacant today, and after checking things out again, we are wondering, where the hell did anyone park? #9 Clators We are pretty sure this place is where Figaretti’s now stands, in Clator. We do remember excellent chicken sandwiches, and one time we all got our asses kicked in the parking lot. #8 Ernie’s Cork and Bottle This was the place to be when the Italianfest used to close down Market Street and VERY late at night. We remember phones situated at each table; we are guessing in the swinging ’80s patrons would use them to invite guests to their tables. We also remember sunken floors and secret rooms? She still stands there today, most likely for sale for a good price. C’mon hipsters; this one has you written all over it. #7 Graceland Way out there on Cherry Hill, Graceland was a big place that could get away with hosting things like the Tough Man Contest Calendar Girl Competition, sigh. This jukebox geared more country, and we remember colorful decor, but not that much to tell the truth. Today the footprint is covered by a housing project. #6 The Firehouse We remember this North Wheeling establishment most resembling something from a big East Coast city. A former firehouse, The Firehouse seemed to thrive on the release of Icehouse Beer, which was the pinnacle of “Ice Beer.” By the way, what the hell was Ice Beer? Was Zima Ice Beer? The place still stands today, and like the Cork and Bottle, looks vacant and is probably for sale. #5 The Office Lounge This Downtown place must have really made a huge impact on us because we don’t even remember where it was. The picture below shows the still in operation McClure House, but where the heck was this place? This was a place for dancing; the bathroom was always really crowded, but there was an available alley, just not sure; we need your help here. #4 Jaybo’s This was an Elm Grove late ’90s must. We remember Brett Cain just killing ’90s tunes, and that’s about it, but it was definitely a great complement to a pre-game at Wakim’s, which has got to be one of the few places in the country, that at least at the time, would serve liquor, but not mixed drinks, only shots. Jaybo’s is where the current Silver Chopsticks is now. #3 Captain Ed’s Floating Lounge I think most people agree that this place sucked pretty bad. But the fact that it was on a barge off of 48th St., in the river, and you had to walk a plank to get on the barge and that it didn’t close, it SANK, has to put it in the Top 3. There have to be so many Weelunk stories about this place. We remember when the FBI came to check IDs, not sure if they came by boat or not; we had some stellar fakes and got by. Again the barge SANK, so this is what it looks like today. #2 The Swing Club It was in Fulton and was the Wheeling icon of this time period. Yes, it is now Generations, and we think it is under the same ownership, but it is not the same place at all. (Weelunk loves Generations BTW, see here: Through the Generations ). The first time we went to the Swing Club, five of us used the same fake ID, and I think we might have been juniors in high school. The downstairs was the place to chill, and the upstairs the place to dance. Try closing your eyes and playing this song, and don’t tell me you are transported to a way overcrowded, smoke-filled, flannel filled, dirt-stash filled dance floor…and have fond memories: Ginuwine – Pony https://weelunk.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/02-Pony.m4a #1 Mac’s Club Mac’s is No. 1 because it was great, it closed without warning, it was within walking distance to somebody’s home where you could crash, and now its replacement is something from the opposite spectrum of culture – a family dentistry. We remember the sound of every downed beer bottle breaking after the bartender threw it down the Woodsdale laundry style-chute. We remember very tight quarters and a secret room in the back. And we remember songs like these on the jukebox: Pearl Jam – Black https://weelunk.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/05-Black.m4a Weelunk.com publishes daily, to receive notification of new stories like this one, be sure to like us on Facebook here: Weelunk Honorable Mention: Knotty Pines, Billy’s Burgers, Bubba’s, The Lightning Rod and The Eagle Club Share this:Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window)Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window)Click to share on Pocket (Opens in new window) 167 Responses paul stoehr February 7, 2019 Great grand father had a saloon in the late 1880’s with his sons Called Stoehr saloon 17th & Eoff Log in to Reply Dave March 3, 2018 I can tell you some stories about Bars in Wheeling that my family owned back in the days of paddle wheel river boats. My great grandfather owned a bar on the banks of the Ohio River. Made enough money to retire in 16 years. After a short retirement he sold the bar on the Ohio and bought two new bars in Fulton. Gave one to each of this 2 sons just before Prohibition started. The bars turned into speak-easy’s. My grandfather made enough money selling boot-leg whiskey to buy 32 houses in Fulton Log in to Reply Anonymous January 31, 2018 The Inferno club, Tin Pan Alley, What was the name of the club that was over the Capital Theater? Log in to Reply Dave January 4, 2018 I may have missed an entry. Got a bit tired of the duplicate posts. But I did not see HUMWAY’S on the Island mentioned. If there was a more eclectic, insane, not to be believed, semi-dangerous, that couldn’t have happened there, establishment in the past 50 years in the Wheeling area I must not have found it. Log in to Reply Anonymous January 19, 2018 19th hole Log in to Reply Sherry October 25, 2017 Lou’s Voo Doo on Wheeling Island was where my friends and I would go. We had a great time there. Log in to Reply MEllen May 10, 2017 I’m originally from Bellaire, but spent quite a bit of time in Wheeling in the l980’s patronizing the Oddessy Lounge, Crazy Horse, Elbow Room, Next Door, a “key club” located in some alley (may have been the Cork), Monte’s in the alley between Main and Market Streets, Yacht Club, Fast Freddie’s, listening to Castleman’s Run at the Checkerboard. I moved to Phoenix in l989 and haven’t had fun like that since. Log in to Reply PirateRooster May 3, 2017 How about the Blue Caboose?? I bartended at the Cork and Bottle for a good part of the 80’s. I remember after tin pan alley closed some guys used the bottom floor as a key club. Many a nights we crawled out of there when the sun was coming up. Log in to Reply Anonymous October 8, 2017 Hello I was wondering if you might have pictures of the blue Caboose? Log in to Reply Anonymous March 16, 2017 If you mean Big Berthas on Water Street it was a house of ill repute. Log in to Reply Linda March 5, 2017 Am dating myself but how about the Bloody Bucket on the road to West Liberty Log in to Reply Anonymous July 7, 2017 My grandparents owned that bar! Log in to Reply Ray July 18, 2018 Fond memories of “The Bloody Bucket” and the Hilltop. Think the Steelers loved the Bucket when they held their training camp at West Lib. Who can forget Big Daddy Lipscomb? Log in to Reply Julias February 14, 2017 Tin Pan Alley! Log in to Reply D.D. January 30, 2017 Eagle II in the early 80’s–that was our “Cheers” back then… Log in to Reply Anonymous January 12, 2017 Rendezvous in Elm Grove Log in to Reply Patricia Wilson December 30, 2016 No mention of the White Front, it was where the parking lot for the Barnes & Noble store is now. Maddies Lounge on the North end of the Island, Alphies right off of the Fort Henry Bridge, JC Bar on Jacob Street, the Green Lantern, Zanke’s Bar, the Social Club on 18th Street. Log in to Reply Fran Johnson July 18, 2017 My grandmother Emma Flaherty was the manager of the Italian social club in the early 60’s. Men only. But my favorite was Ziegenfelder’s ice cream on 18th street, his homemade candy was so good. Right next to St. ANTHONY’S church where I was baptized! Log in to Reply HB December 29, 2016 What,no one mentioned the yacht club on the island? Log in to Reply J.j. December 30, 2016 The list continues to grow..Merry mint, pirate’s cove, the metro, Billy’s brick yard, the windmill lounge and the list continues Log in to Reply Clint Flouhouse December 30, 2016 Went to the yacht Club in the fifties. We could take boat rides. Log in to Reply Barry D December 29, 2016 My good friend Doug McFadden ran Mac’s Club. Used to be a mom and pop bodega run by his grandfather in the 60’s. Log in to Reply Dave March 3, 2018 I worked at Mac’s in the late 1950’s. Owned and operated by John & Della McFadden. The best times were the Friday Night Fights on TV and John’s famous Hot Dogs with chili sauce. We sold them by the dozen. The backroom was added to the bar for the new college students at that time. John and Della were very good to me and treated me like family. I miss them. They got to be too old to run the bar and closed the bar and moved into one of John’s homes on Valley View Ave. Log in to Reply Karen Sauder December 29, 2016 I have one, remember the Eagle? There on National Rd by I think it was a grocery. Log in to Reply Harold T. Holmes December 30, 2016 Macs Club is WHere The Gentle Dental Building on the corner….gutted the interior and redid…. I helped Dr. Rybeck & Dr. Lough with this transition…..circa 1999-2000 is now on Washington Avnue Log in to Reply Harold T. Holmes December 30, 2016 HEY GUYS>>>>>how about the MERRYMINT on the island by the old bridge where abbey’s sits today……MUSIC, BANDS, DRUGS AND HEAVY CONNECTIONS….LOL Log in to Reply Anonymous December 29, 2016 Not one mention of the Celler Lounge or the Duck Inn…so many places…so many memories Log in to Reply Lynne December 29, 2016 The Office Lounge is still on 12th Street behind the Federal building, same exact building, it’s currently the Wheeling Moose Lodge Log in to Reply Teri December 29, 2016 Chip’s Club in Elm Grove!! Log in to Reply Chuck December 29, 2016 No mention of the Alamo? Log in to Reply Harold T. Holmes December 30, 2016 That was over on old Rt. 40 where there is a housing complex now>>> Log in to Reply Julias February 14, 2017 Yes, the Alamo…It was a fire trap, but we had lots of fun there. Log in to Reply Gary December 29, 2016 Jaybos was called the rondevous or by its nickname the zoo. Log in to Reply Missy August 18, 2016 Who remembers the The Down Under , drinking,heavy metal music , and beach volleyball . What a blast !!!! Log in to Reply Tracy December 29, 2016 By far the most fun! A little gross but a ton of fun! Log in to Reply Missy August 18, 2016 Talk about short lived early 90’s The Downunder , drinking , heavy metal music and beach volleyball . Lots of stories there. Log in to Reply Theresa June 17, 2016 What about Lous Landingand Eagle inn, and the Study Hall. Log in to Reply Anonymous June 21, 2016 Oh this is making me mad!!! First who wrote this a ten year old? First the eagle two was the greatest bar of all time and I should know because I bartended at most of the bars in wheeling and the cork and bottle was the second greatest! the office lounge where I worked for three years was located on 12th street up from the cork where I believe the moose is now was a great bar known for its office scenes covering an entire wall was popular spot for media employees from channel 7 including one who went on to having her own talk show…it was a popular after hours spot. Sad to hear no mention of Tin Pan Alley , the elbow room, the next door or Howard johnsons the under glass and of course ernies esquire! Geez really Log in to Reply Brown December 29, 2016 I played all those joints..you guys never heard of the office lounge…wow..you missed it…tin pan…brown and eddie…wheeling mall of entertainment…cork ernie used to be cool…cops used to come in at five to have a joe…then theres the flamingo…took nittygritty dirt band there after jamboree. Tanya tucker to usef to leabe thay placr sun coming up birdies singing. Hehaw Dewbug May 21, 2017 the Office Lounge-lol-I bartended there too. Great music -Brett Cain,Humble Sacrifice–CRAyZee good times. Lynne December 29, 2016 The Eagle Inn should’ve definitely made this list Log in to Reply John B. March 26, 2016 How about on the Island, Mac’s Holiday, Mr. Z Club, Sahara Club. What was the lounge inside the motel next to the Wheeling Subspension Bridge. Back in the 60’s & 70’s it was easy to his a dozen different locations a night. Log in to Reply Anonymous December 29, 2016 Fabulous Fannies Log in to Reply Keith Dawson March 3, 2016 The office was on 12th street next to the post office?? And almost directly across the street from the greyhound. In the early to mid 90’s i would go in there and call my GF and tell her “I’m gonna be late, I’m at the office” it took her serveral weeks to realize i did not work in an office Log in to Reply Sharon S. Naples FL February 29, 2016 The Hilltop was still popular in the 50 & 60’s. There were quite a few places in those years that had music. I remember the Diamond Lounge for the jazz on Monday nights after the stores closed at 9:00. Along with the Little Club and a small lounge upstairs over Zellers Steak House. I think some of the music was provided by Wheeling High School’s band director as he directed a small group that played at various places and functions. As the old saying goes – Those Were The Good Old Days in Wheeling. Log in to Reply Bob Bonene/Dauphin Island January 14, 2018 Monday Night Log in to Reply Dave "Bruce" Bartens March 8, 2018 When I was in my 3rd year at Central High School I was using a faked ID that said I was 18. Using the ID I play guitar in a 5 piece band in a cellar club in abasement next to Dave Banoff’s Store on Market Street. I don’t remember the name of the lounge but it was always packed with people. The year was I believe was 1958-59 it was my first job playing music. We recorded a LP album at Bill Black’s studio located in the Court Theater building, i still have the album. Does anyone remember the name of this lounge? Log in to Reply Sue February 9, 2016 Okay, let’s go back even further. During the mid 70’s the “Electric Flag” out Wheeling Creek. They were only open on Saturday night and had the best bands in the Valley, Everyone would meet at “Moxies” on Washington Ave, next door to Mac’s. Then head out the creek. Log in to Reply Jim Simpson December 29, 2016 Sue, I’m glad you mentioned these two. I moved away in 1980, so the 70’s is the era I remember. Kind of a dive but there was the Southside Inn (South Wheeling) that had the Beer-ador beer frig, very cool! Log in to Reply Anonymous March 3, 2017 I did the Moxie/Electric Flag Saturday night adventure. Very exciting. The bands were fantastic and it was the drug scene for sure (although I didn’t do them). Log in to Reply Sutton February 5, 2018 Thank you for those memories; I had forgot the names of those two places. Discovered this internet site after recently thinking of a bar in Patterson, Elm Grove, called Porters. My Dad took me there, and to Knotty Pines, when I was a boy in the 60’s, in the cold months, after a day of ‘hunting’. I’d have a pop and a slim Jim or beef jerky and my Dad would cave beer and a picked egg or pig’s foot. I used to feel such comfort in those bars; the peanuts and snacks, the dim lighting and warmth. I used to enjoy looking at Porter’s extensive collection of Jim Beam bottles running up top along the length of the bar. And I don’t know if anybody has yet mentioned the Alpha. Thank you again. Log in to Reply Terry February 3, 2016 Im surprised nobody mentioned The Oddessy Lounge sit on 16th St. where the college park is, I was a bouncer there when I was 17. Fun times Log in to Reply Anonymous December 29, 2016 I was very surprised no one mentioned the Odyssey Log in to Reply Ron Hickman March 4, 2017 The oddesy was the place in the 70s hands down. Downtown whg had so many bars in walking distance. The island had over 20 bars in the 70 s. I grew up there. Never had to leave or drive. It was Great. Ralph S February 2, 2016 What about Tom’s on Edgington Lane where the bowling alley is now? Absolutely the cleanest place in town! The girls from St. Joseph’s Academy used to do their homework there. Great place 50-60 yrs ago. Log in to Reply Jay D February 2, 2016 “a 2:00 am breakfast at the Pancake house downtown or Mary’s Kitchen by the Market House.” Tom, I’m pretty sure it was “Terry’s” Kitchen. Man oh man, all the gals posting their memories of the old Wheeling bars. I remember every one of YOU! LOL! Log in to Reply Tom February 1, 2016 The Office Lounge , Cork and Bottle , McClure Hotel ( Kings Court) , Tin Alan Alley. Fort Henry Billards all had Down Town Wheeling hopping every night, add a “Suffering Bastard “from The Peking Gardens and the dancers at Hazels and you were ready for a 2:00 am breakfast at the Pancake house downtown or Mary’s Kitchen by the Market House. Hoowa …..And then catch the final show at the Palace. Where have all the flowers gone !!!!!!! Log in to Reply Bill Koegler February 1, 2016 “Pap” Cain moved his business form the Bank building and “retooled” the “Hunting and Fishing Club”. The Villa was where we ( The WLU Rowdies) hung out and studied for tests…albeit over a pitcher or two and a cheese plate. However, the most memorable was the “live” TV broadcast of the Vietnam Draft Lottery in early 1970, as we had all just become eligible and our college deferments were over…yes, we actually graduated.. Lots of pitchers, no crying, my number was 62, we were told that anything under 120 was a sure ticket to “NAM”, there were 10 of us, 7 had numbers under 120, and we all joined the US Army reserves in Bellaire the next day…. our friend who had a number in the 300’s had “flat feet” and poor eye site and wold have been rejected anyway, but, as the highest number…he had the privilege of “Buying” all night.. Log in to Reply Jay D February 1, 2016 A friend and myself were out on dates with our girlfriends. We had dinner at the Peking Garden on 12th St. then went over for drinks across the street to the Cork & Bottle. That place used to have “Turtle Races” for whatever reason. When our girls walked in with their Chinese leftovers in those little white cartoons the Cork & Bottle patrons noticed that and accused us of bringing in our own turtle “ringers” to win the races. Too funny. Log in to Reply Jay D February 1, 2016 The Club Villa in Warwood moved from below the bank to another basement location a few blocks north. You entered down a secluded and dimly lit, long, narrow hallway then down carpeted steps to the door with a buzzer. A dark, cozy, friendly, uncrowded neighborhood pub. Great place for a quiet date fueled with a large or small pitcher(s). It was originally owned by retired county and city official Hal Kain who ran it with a cordial but strict discipline. Ownership later changed to local sports writer Cliff McWilliams. It started getting more popular and it’s decline quickly came when the West Liberty crowd descended on it and it became a raucous mess. The Woodsdale Eagle Inn II was THE place in the mid-late 70’s. Many wonderful divorces started out in that place. Log in to Reply Debby Koegler February 1, 2016 OK, lets go “Way Back”, Club Villa in Warwood under the Bank, Jolly Roger… same location as the Hilltop, Pittsburgh Bands in the early 70’s, Hunting and Fishing Club, another basement Club in Warwood. Log in to Reply Reta Sivie berman February 24, 2018 Used yo sneak down to Jolly Roger. From PA. Across state lines at 15 with my 18 year old bot friend. Log in to Reply Jill N. January 31, 2016 About ten yrs ago I was working at the cork & bottle & that place needs lots and lots of work & of it’s still owned by “scandlous pandlous” then I’m sure it’s way over priced. It’s filthy … And not obvious stuff from being closed but w/ damage, mold, roaches ,& rats . I used to look around an think how sad Bc it still has the original booths, atmosphere, style, unique ceiling fans, multiple kitchens & the multiple floors that overlook each other still make the place seem like it should be re done but sadly I think it’s lost any hope it had. Log in to Reply Jim Simpson December 29, 2016 Ernie has passed away. One would think the Cork & Bottle would be sold from his estate, taxes owed? His 29th St. steakhouse sold at auction. I believe the windmill at the top of Wheeling hill may be part of his estate as well. Log in to Reply Anonymous December 29, 2016 Ernie has passed now and had not been same for years due to a stroke. Log in to Reply Sandy January 31, 2016 The Office Lounge was across from the McLure. They used to have killer live music. That was a great bar triangle, McLure, Office, Ernie’s. There used to be another one down in South Wheeling, PeePeks. They used to have quarter draft beer nights, where you could bring ANY size mug you wanted and they’d fill it up for a quarter. I’m not sure how I’m alive after being there but wow, we used to have a good time. I think the building is occupied by a non-bar business now. Oh, and the Knotty Pines is still open, but it is now CJ’s Irish Pub. But one that is closed was going up the hill between south Wheeling and Bethlehem, the Silver Rail. It was a total dive…that’s really all I remember about it. And you totally forgot the Eagle, which was the place to go dancing and drinking back in the day. It’s that Chinese buffet now. There was also one over on the street across from Riesbeck’s, but I can’t remember the name of it, so we must have had fun there! And what about the one going out National Road that had the giant plastic beer bottles outside? They had the greatest BBQ sandwiches. OMG but I had way too much fun in the 80s and 90s, can you tell? Log in to Reply Debbie January 31, 2016 Tropicana and Lou’s Voo Doo I thought would have made the list. However they were on the island. I remember Ernies Cork And bottle had vintage looking phones on each table. Every table had a nu.bet and you could call (like a intercom) each table if you were to shy to walk up and talk or ask for a dance. Log in to Reply Karl February 1, 2016 How about Walker Dicks band every sunday Log in to Reply Sherry October 24, 2017 A group of us had a great time at Lou’s Voo-Doo on Wheeling Island. It was always packed – Wall To Wall with people. Log in to Reply Sherry October 25, 2017 My friends and I went to Lou’s Voo Doo most of the time. We made many friends there. David Mercer stopped in a couple of times. He had just passed his boards. He is now Dr. Mercer at Wheeling Hospital. Log in to Reply Tessa January 31, 2016 I don’t think Capt. Ed’s sucked… Also, the Office Lounge was Across from the McClure it is now the Moose club.. This article has a few other facts wrong. Log in to Reply Sharon Marshall RN January 31, 2016 The Office lounge was right across the street from the McClure hotel lounge and the 2formed a triangle with the cork and bottle. In the late 1970’s we used to travel from one to the other, depending on the night of the week and who had shown up there…Great memories… Log in to Reply Sandy January 31, 2016 So glad someone else remembers the triangle of alcohol LOL! Log in to Reply john January 31, 2016 what? No Tin Pan Alley? It was the place to be. And to be seen! Log in to Reply Patty January 31, 2016 Remember the M&K in Warwood? Log in to Reply Tina January 31, 2016 Dancing to the Achey Breaky @ the M&K lounge in Warwood, lived right across the street after my divorce in the 90s. Great memories!! Log in to Reply Julias February 14, 2017 Yes, spent many of weekends at the M & K. Log in to Reply Rom September 9, 2017 I remember the M&K, but had forgotten the name until I saw this post – So many cool clubs in the 70’s and 80’s … Great Memories!!! Log in to Reply Sherry October 25, 2017 My friends and I hung out there every weekend. What a fun place it was!! Log in to Reply Richard January 31, 2016 I remember listening to Amy Lancione sing at the M&k lounge in the mid eighties. Log in to Reply Sherry October 25, 2017 Black Hawk was a good group also. Log in to Reply Steve Criniti January 31, 2016 How about Wednesday Wing Night at Twist & Shout? Those ladies treated us like sons! Log in to Reply Anonymous January 31, 2016 No “Roof Garden” The one in the basement, on 12th. Log in to Reply Brent January 31, 2016 Wow, awesome list. I wish I would have been able to experience some of these places today! Log in to Reply Pam January 31, 2016 Around the 1978-80’s does anyone remember The Whistlestop or The Checkerboard? Log in to Reply Anonymous June 16, 2016 I remmber the checkerboard I used to go with elm grove crewgreat tme Log in to Reply Harold T. Holmes December 30, 2016 yes, where Figarettis is now, the Whistle stop, was 1980-1981>>the Train still came thru there twice a day for Tunnel green>>>. Log in to Reply Mark January 31, 2016 The Firehouse…really? I think it was only open less than a year! lol Log in to Reply Anonymous August 18, 2016 I believe The Downunder on Main Street was short lived also but was super fun drinking and playing beach volleyball in the sand . Log in to Reply Mark January 31, 2016 Chips out by Reisbecks, The Green House on Kruger Street, The Cardinal Inn, Washington Ave and the legendary Tiki Hut in Woodsdale. Log in to Reply Anonymous December 29, 2016 Thanks Mark, Chip’s was owned by my dad! Chip Marshall. Great memories! Log in to Reply BD April 27, 2017 Oh yes the Tiki Hut in Woodsdale! Great times! Log in to Reply Michele January 31, 2016 Great article…lived in Wheeling in the 70’s and remember many on the list. thanks for the memories Log in to Reply Tom January 31, 2016 What about the Silver Rail? I think that’s what it was called. Log in to Reply Julias February 14, 2017 I was a hole in the wall, but we packed them in! Log in to Reply Karen Corona Merritt January 31, 2016 What a trip down memory lane. We all used to go to Mac’s Club after work at the Pizza Inn. Those were really great days. I also loved Ernie’s Cork and Bottle. Lots of memories made there. Also, The Pirates Cove was great fun. And the Eagle on National Road. Log in to Reply Tooter January 31, 2016 I was bartender at macs, macs2 in West liberty, swing club, jaybos, and eagle inn. I think eagle has to be a top 5. Log in to Reply Mary January 31, 2016 Office Lounge was on the corner of the alley on 12th Street, on the Elbys side of the street. We used to go the for lunch all the time, for their chef salad. It was very narrow. Log in to Reply Paula January 31, 2016 The bar in Clator was the Whistle Stop. The train tracks were right there where the walking trail is now. Don’t forget Peach’s on River Road, Club 17 & A&R Club in Warwood, The Bloody Bucket on Short Creek, and Silver Rail. Log in to Reply Anonymous July 14, 2018 I thought I’d be the only one to remember the Bloody Bucket! Log in to Reply Anonymous January 31, 2016 How about Pepix’s(not sure of spelling) and the Metro. Pepix’s was in South Wheeling on the corner before that playground awesome dance floor that lite up. Many good times their. And the Metro was in now vacant lot across from Riesbecks which also was a good dance club. It was small but fun. Both of these places was in the 80’s. Wish Wheeling would be like it used to be so our kids would have something to look forward to. Log in to Reply Anonymous January 31, 2016 Peepecks silver rail open new name office lounge still a club Log in to Reply nancy January 31, 2016 I remember Glassworks, Tin Pan Alley and the Eagle Club and also the Merriment. Log in to Reply Sherry October 25, 2017 Fun places Log in to Reply maggie January 31, 2016 What happen to Eugenes in East Wheeling,holiday inn on 16 th st. Lambus on 16 th street spaghetti village. Most of these where right in wheeling Log in to Reply Linsly91 January 31, 2016 The bar in elm grove was called the Metro! also the Oricle and Orangatan. what about Big Berthas and the My Club? Log in to Reply Anonymous December 30, 2016 I think Oracle was next to Cork and Bottle and Orangatan was previously the Office Lounge Log in to Reply Rick January 31, 2016 Don’t forget Harvey’s 1818 where on Thursday you could get a draft with any size glass for a $1.00. As for as the place to go in the early ’80’s was the Eagle II hands-down. Log in to Reply Dan K March 3, 2016 Oh my – Harvey’s mug night. People would get pretty creative – There was a good story about West Lib Chemistry students bringing in multi liter flasks. Log in to Reply JR January 31, 2016 Nice post. But you can’t add any other song when discussing Macs other than “Paradise By the Dashboard Light”. Wonderful, wonderful…. Log in to Reply Anonymous January 31, 2016 Back in the early 90’s I worked at Ernies Cork & Bottle….it was always kinda dead when it came to business. Am shocked The Eagle wasn’t listed here. Log in to Reply Lisa Marie January 31, 2016 Nice trip down memory lane. What was the name of the bar (early 90’s) that was out by where Riesbecks and Tractor Supply is now? Log in to Reply Anonymous January 31, 2016 Chip’s Log in to Reply Anonymous January 31, 2016 The Metro Log in to Reply Anonymous December 29, 2016 The old Lion Head!! Anonymous January 31, 2016 It was originally “Chips,” but later became the “Metro.” Log in to Reply Michelle January 31, 2016 The Metro? Log in to Reply Anonymous January 31, 2016 Metro Log in to Reply Anonymous January 31, 2016 I think it was Jaybo’s Log in to Reply Anonymous January 31, 2016 Metro Lounge Log in to Reply Anonymous January 31, 2016 Fort Henry Club? Log in to Reply Anonymous January 31, 2016 I think it was chips Log in to Reply BT January 31, 2016 Tin Pan Alley and the Pirates Cove were the best! Thanks for sharing. Log in to Reply Nannette January 31, 2016 I frequented Tin Pan Alley! It had a great and fun dance floor upstairs. I made a lot of friends there. And I went by myself! Log in to Reply BT January 31, 2016 Tin Pan Alley and the Pirates Cove were the best! Log in to Reply Michelle Bennington January 31, 2016 I was in a band that played at Captain Ed’s when they had a really bad boating accident on the river. You haven’t lived until the police come in to look over the sides of the barge to see if a missing body is floating close by. Log in to Reply Lynne January 31, 2016 I remember that night! I was there! Log in to Reply Ralph Scheuer April 15, 2016 Remember Underglass that was part of Howard Johnsons. A little older crowd. Log in to Reply Matt January 31, 2016 There was a bar that was situated kinda near the Krogers in Elm Grove. Once inside the entire bar was a scene from space. The walls, dance floor , ceiling was painted with neon colors. With disco lights and neon lights combined with all the alcohol I drank. It made for a good time. Does anybody remember it’s name? Log in to Reply Melissa January 31, 2016 It sounds like the bar by respecs in elm grove called the metro bar I used to go there to dance and have a good time with friends it no longer there Log in to Reply Anonymous January 31, 2016 The Metro,my friend Dorian did all the art. Log in to Reply Anonymous January 31, 2016 Metro Log in to Reply Anonymous January 31, 2016 There was never a Kroger in Elm Grove Log in to Reply Anonymous January 31, 2016 Porters Log in to Reply Anonymous January 31, 2016 The Metro. 2 dollar pitchers Log in to Reply Rebecca January 31, 2016 The Eagle was THE place in the early 80s. People who worked at other bars went there to dance. In the late 70s, #9 on the list was called The Whistlestop…any high school kid could get in that place. Log in to Reply Denise Gates January 31, 2016 Thanks for that great trip down memory lane!!! Log in to Reply Sherry Simon December 29, 2016 Amen Denise! Brought back a lot of good memories seeing the names of these places! Log in to Reply justin January 31, 2016 Chit Chat Log in to Reply Kimberly Amend Bator January 31, 2016 Amend’s bar on Kruger St. Served Coleman’s fish every Fri, cooked by my Aunt Edith. Log in to Reply nancy taylor January 31, 2016 i think amends also served hot sausage sand. they were really good. Log in to Reply Anonymous January 31, 2016 What about the Pine Hill Corral out Big Wheeling Creek? There were some parties out there!!! Log in to Reply Julias February 14, 2017 Don’t forget the Electric Flag! Log in to Reply Cj January 31, 2016 I remember do many of these places but how come there is no mention of The Lion Head Log in to Reply Kim January 31, 2016 For several years I was the main DJ at The original Glassworks Lounge in Oglebay’s Wilson a Lodge and then at Eagle II —- my vantage point provided a one of a kind view!! Log in to Reply Barb January 31, 2016 Does no one remember Lou’s Voo Doo Club (downstairs) with the flashing lighted panels in the elevated dance floor and the waterfall wall? Lou had live bands back in the 1970’s. It was the place to be Wednesday through Sunday The bar is still on the Island. Log in to Reply Anonymous January 31, 2016 Oh yes, danced there all the time. Realized years later that really was a fire trap! Log in to Reply Melissa January 31, 2016 I loved dancing at the Voo Doo and met my husband there in 1973. Was hoping somebody would mention it. Log in to Reply Julias February 14, 2017 Yes, It was a fun place….And they had the best restrooms for the women! Log in to Reply Brenda January 31, 2016 I am surprised that there is no mention about Tin Pan Alley, The Merrymint & Club VooDoo. Log in to Reply Bob Dorris January 31, 2016 In the mid 70’s I had just returned from a trip to Florida where Disco had taken over the Clubs all over the state. I approached Jim Coyne, the owner and told him what I had seen. He took me to the second floor of Tin Pan Ally and said maybe we could fix this up into a Disco. I said yes it could. About a month later he opened The Attic Disco. It was a big success. With in the next year three ore Disco clubs opened in Wheeling. Log in to Reply Jo Lynne Nugent January 31, 2016 Before Jaybo’s it was the Rendezvous. The Office Lounge was on the north side of 12th street, in a hole in the wall between Chapline & Market (or was it between Eoff & Chapline?). It served great beef & Cheese hoagies. For a time in the early 90’s they staged poetry readings upstairs, which later were moved to the upstairs of the Cork & Bottle. Log in to Reply Feliz Navidad August 2, 2017 Thanks for remembering the poetry readings, called “The Empty Step”. They were held once a month upstairs at the Cork and Bottle about the time of the first war with Iraq. They usually had a poet read original works, then had an open mike. It went strong for about two years. It moved because the room was getting crowded with so many patrons! Alas, the move to a new venue killed the readings. Log in to Reply Scott Davis January 31, 2016 The Office was on 12th Street….where the Moose Club is today Log in to Reply Michele January 31, 2016 Yes, I thought so too. (The Office on 12th) I thought cross the street from the side of the McClure Hotel. Log in to Reply dr dng January 31, 2016 Cork & Bottle… Best disco bar of the ‘ 70’s. Was a unique setting. If Wheeling rebounds it has potential. – The Eagle Inn’s has to be in the top 10. It was the place to be for many years. – Going back to the ’60’s the Hilltop was the place (Rt 88 & Peters Run) Made a short return about 5 years ago and disappeared again. Why? – – Log in to Reply Sheila January 31, 2016 And still existing for a few years now and popular spot the 19th hole Log in to Reply Staci January 31, 2016 Well, I am prejudice, but Chip’s Club in the Grove was my favorite watering hole! Log in to Reply Mark January 31, 2016 lol, yes you would be prejudice! Crystal W. January 31, 2016 I worked at Graceland when I was a freshman in college. I remember Bill and Joann vividly. He was quite the schmoozer. The bands on Fridays always had the place hopping and the booze was always flowing, so the tips were great, especially for a college student. I visited once more around 2000, and it must have been right before they closed. The food was still greasy and rhe music was still pumping, but it was an almost comical scene. The Eagle, where AC Buffet now sits, was loud, great for dancing and even better if you were underage because I know our group was never carded and I am pretty sure I never once bought my own drink there. They would just show up in front of me, all sweet and delicious, usually paid for by some middle aged man hoping to score. We always went in groups so we wouldn’t make a stupid mistake of actually going home drunk with someone. Hawk’s, in south Wheeling, was one of the best if you wanted to hang with your bestie and lay low, just getting poo faced, listening to music or just the conversation around the bar. There was never any worry about getting busted for underage drinking unless you made the stupid mistake of driving home. Your best bet was to find a nearby friend to crash with or just call an older sibling. Captain Ed’s was about the same atmosphere, but the only time I ever saw a lot of people there was when we brought them in ourselves. Leaving to go home was always scary because we knew we were drunk and we knew that once misstep amd they would be pulling our body from the locks in New Martinsville in a couple of days. Good times. Good times. Log in to Reply Sue January 31, 2016 What about Tin Pan Alley? Three floors of Music and some pretty cool bands. Acoustic on the bottom floor, Brown and Eddy, Kim and Ed and Kiddog! Middle floor was a disco and top floor Jazz. I sat at the bar with friends when Billy Joel was in town for a concert at the Capitol Music Hall during his Piano Man years. He bought us all a drink and sat and BS’ed with us for quite a while. My favorite Wheeling Bar ever. Sad to know its a ghost bar. Korin June 19, 2016 Hawks Lounge in South Wheeling was a awesome bar!! Korin June 19, 2016 Hawks Lounge was an awesome bar!! So many good times and wonderful people that became a second family to many! Wild nights of drinking with close friends and family, then to be able to walk a half a block up to get ur grub on with an amazing slice of pizza top with mounds extra cheese and banana peppers from the famous, one and only Tony’s Pizza!! Great memories! I would love to be able to have one last drink at Hawks Lounge and then go get a slice from Tony’s pizza!! ???? Kris January 31, 2016 The Lions Club, it was on Market Street across from the old Stone and Thomas building. That place was always packed just like the Swing Club. Log in to Reply Anonymous February 1, 2016 The Hilltop was a popular place for “High Schoolers” way back in the late 1930’s. When I was teenagers!! Log in to Reply Tim C. November 19, 2016 Nobody mentions Fabulous Fannies, the hotel next to the suspension bridge. I bartended there in 1979. and 1980. Small but fun place. Owned by the Boury Bros. Log in to Reply Anonymous May 5, 2017 What was the bar before this? Or may i ask if there was another bar located aound back downstairs in 1660s? Leave a Reply Cancel ReplyYou must be logged in to post a comment.
paul stoehr February 7, 2019 Great grand father had a saloon in the late 1880’s with his sons Called Stoehr saloon 17th & Eoff Log in to Reply
Dave March 3, 2018 I can tell you some stories about Bars in Wheeling that my family owned back in the days of paddle wheel river boats. My great grandfather owned a bar on the banks of the Ohio River. Made enough money to retire in 16 years. After a short retirement he sold the bar on the Ohio and bought two new bars in Fulton. Gave one to each of this 2 sons just before Prohibition started. The bars turned into speak-easy’s. My grandfather made enough money selling boot-leg whiskey to buy 32 houses in Fulton Log in to Reply
Anonymous January 31, 2018 The Inferno club, Tin Pan Alley, What was the name of the club that was over the Capital Theater? Log in to Reply
Dave January 4, 2018 I may have missed an entry. Got a bit tired of the duplicate posts. But I did not see HUMWAY’S on the Island mentioned. If there was a more eclectic, insane, not to be believed, semi-dangerous, that couldn’t have happened there, establishment in the past 50 years in the Wheeling area I must not have found it. Log in to Reply
Sherry October 25, 2017 Lou’s Voo Doo on Wheeling Island was where my friends and I would go. We had a great time there. Log in to Reply
MEllen May 10, 2017 I’m originally from Bellaire, but spent quite a bit of time in Wheeling in the l980’s patronizing the Oddessy Lounge, Crazy Horse, Elbow Room, Next Door, a “key club” located in some alley (may have been the Cork), Monte’s in the alley between Main and Market Streets, Yacht Club, Fast Freddie’s, listening to Castleman’s Run at the Checkerboard. I moved to Phoenix in l989 and haven’t had fun like that since. Log in to Reply
PirateRooster May 3, 2017 How about the Blue Caboose?? I bartended at the Cork and Bottle for a good part of the 80’s. I remember after tin pan alley closed some guys used the bottom floor as a key club. Many a nights we crawled out of there when the sun was coming up. Log in to Reply
Anonymous October 8, 2017 Hello I was wondering if you might have pictures of the blue Caboose? Log in to Reply
Anonymous March 16, 2017 If you mean Big Berthas on Water Street it was a house of ill repute. Log in to Reply
Linda March 5, 2017 Am dating myself but how about the Bloody Bucket on the road to West Liberty Log in to Reply
Ray July 18, 2018 Fond memories of “The Bloody Bucket” and the Hilltop. Think the Steelers loved the Bucket when they held their training camp at West Lib. Who can forget Big Daddy Lipscomb? Log in to Reply
Patricia Wilson December 30, 2016 No mention of the White Front, it was where the parking lot for the Barnes & Noble store is now. Maddies Lounge on the North end of the Island, Alphies right off of the Fort Henry Bridge, JC Bar on Jacob Street, the Green Lantern, Zanke’s Bar, the Social Club on 18th Street. Log in to Reply
Fran Johnson July 18, 2017 My grandmother Emma Flaherty was the manager of the Italian social club in the early 60’s. Men only. But my favorite was Ziegenfelder’s ice cream on 18th street, his homemade candy was so good. Right next to St. ANTHONY’S church where I was baptized! Log in to Reply
J.j. December 30, 2016 The list continues to grow..Merry mint, pirate’s cove, the metro, Billy’s brick yard, the windmill lounge and the list continues Log in to Reply
Clint Flouhouse December 30, 2016 Went to the yacht Club in the fifties. We could take boat rides. Log in to Reply
Barry D December 29, 2016 My good friend Doug McFadden ran Mac’s Club. Used to be a mom and pop bodega run by his grandfather in the 60’s. Log in to Reply
Dave March 3, 2018 I worked at Mac’s in the late 1950’s. Owned and operated by John & Della McFadden. The best times were the Friday Night Fights on TV and John’s famous Hot Dogs with chili sauce. We sold them by the dozen. The backroom was added to the bar for the new college students at that time. John and Della were very good to me and treated me like family. I miss them. They got to be too old to run the bar and closed the bar and moved into one of John’s homes on Valley View Ave. Log in to Reply
Karen Sauder December 29, 2016 I have one, remember the Eagle? There on National Rd by I think it was a grocery. Log in to Reply
Harold T. Holmes December 30, 2016 Macs Club is WHere The Gentle Dental Building on the corner….gutted the interior and redid…. I helped Dr. Rybeck & Dr. Lough with this transition…..circa 1999-2000 is now on Washington Avnue Log in to Reply
Harold T. Holmes December 30, 2016 HEY GUYS>>>>>how about the MERRYMINT on the island by the old bridge where abbey’s sits today……MUSIC, BANDS, DRUGS AND HEAVY CONNECTIONS….LOL Log in to Reply
Anonymous December 29, 2016 Not one mention of the Celler Lounge or the Duck Inn…so many places…so many memories Log in to Reply
Lynne December 29, 2016 The Office Lounge is still on 12th Street behind the Federal building, same exact building, it’s currently the Wheeling Moose Lodge Log in to Reply
Harold T. Holmes December 30, 2016 That was over on old Rt. 40 where there is a housing complex now>>> Log in to Reply
Julias February 14, 2017 Yes, the Alamo…It was a fire trap, but we had lots of fun there. Log in to Reply
Missy August 18, 2016 Who remembers the The Down Under , drinking,heavy metal music , and beach volleyball . What a blast !!!! Log in to Reply
Missy August 18, 2016 Talk about short lived early 90’s The Downunder , drinking , heavy metal music and beach volleyball . Lots of stories there. Log in to Reply
Anonymous June 21, 2016 Oh this is making me mad!!! First who wrote this a ten year old? First the eagle two was the greatest bar of all time and I should know because I bartended at most of the bars in wheeling and the cork and bottle was the second greatest! the office lounge where I worked for three years was located on 12th street up from the cork where I believe the moose is now was a great bar known for its office scenes covering an entire wall was popular spot for media employees from channel 7 including one who went on to having her own talk show…it was a popular after hours spot. Sad to hear no mention of Tin Pan Alley , the elbow room, the next door or Howard johnsons the under glass and of course ernies esquire! Geez really Log in to Reply
Brown December 29, 2016 I played all those joints..you guys never heard of the office lounge…wow..you missed it…tin pan…brown and eddie…wheeling mall of entertainment…cork ernie used to be cool…cops used to come in at five to have a joe…then theres the flamingo…took nittygritty dirt band there after jamboree. Tanya tucker to usef to leabe thay placr sun coming up birdies singing. Hehaw
Dewbug May 21, 2017 the Office Lounge-lol-I bartended there too. Great music -Brett Cain,Humble Sacrifice–CRAyZee good times.
John B. March 26, 2016 How about on the Island, Mac’s Holiday, Mr. Z Club, Sahara Club. What was the lounge inside the motel next to the Wheeling Subspension Bridge. Back in the 60’s & 70’s it was easy to his a dozen different locations a night. Log in to Reply
Keith Dawson March 3, 2016 The office was on 12th street next to the post office?? And almost directly across the street from the greyhound. In the early to mid 90’s i would go in there and call my GF and tell her “I’m gonna be late, I’m at the office” it took her serveral weeks to realize i did not work in an office Log in to Reply
Sharon S. Naples FL February 29, 2016 The Hilltop was still popular in the 50 & 60’s. There were quite a few places in those years that had music. I remember the Diamond Lounge for the jazz on Monday nights after the stores closed at 9:00. Along with the Little Club and a small lounge upstairs over Zellers Steak House. I think some of the music was provided by Wheeling High School’s band director as he directed a small group that played at various places and functions. As the old saying goes – Those Were The Good Old Days in Wheeling. Log in to Reply
Dave "Bruce" Bartens March 8, 2018 When I was in my 3rd year at Central High School I was using a faked ID that said I was 18. Using the ID I play guitar in a 5 piece band in a cellar club in abasement next to Dave Banoff’s Store on Market Street. I don’t remember the name of the lounge but it was always packed with people. The year was I believe was 1958-59 it was my first job playing music. We recorded a LP album at Bill Black’s studio located in the Court Theater building, i still have the album. Does anyone remember the name of this lounge? Log in to Reply
Sue February 9, 2016 Okay, let’s go back even further. During the mid 70’s the “Electric Flag” out Wheeling Creek. They were only open on Saturday night and had the best bands in the Valley, Everyone would meet at “Moxies” on Washington Ave, next door to Mac’s. Then head out the creek. Log in to Reply
Jim Simpson December 29, 2016 Sue, I’m glad you mentioned these two. I moved away in 1980, so the 70’s is the era I remember. Kind of a dive but there was the Southside Inn (South Wheeling) that had the Beer-ador beer frig, very cool! Log in to Reply
Anonymous March 3, 2017 I did the Moxie/Electric Flag Saturday night adventure. Very exciting. The bands were fantastic and it was the drug scene for sure (although I didn’t do them). Log in to Reply
Sutton February 5, 2018 Thank you for those memories; I had forgot the names of those two places. Discovered this internet site after recently thinking of a bar in Patterson, Elm Grove, called Porters. My Dad took me there, and to Knotty Pines, when I was a boy in the 60’s, in the cold months, after a day of ‘hunting’. I’d have a pop and a slim Jim or beef jerky and my Dad would cave beer and a picked egg or pig’s foot. I used to feel such comfort in those bars; the peanuts and snacks, the dim lighting and warmth. I used to enjoy looking at Porter’s extensive collection of Jim Beam bottles running up top along the length of the bar. And I don’t know if anybody has yet mentioned the Alpha. Thank you again. Log in to Reply
Terry February 3, 2016 Im surprised nobody mentioned The Oddessy Lounge sit on 16th St. where the college park is, I was a bouncer there when I was 17. Fun times Log in to Reply
Ron Hickman March 4, 2017 The oddesy was the place in the 70s hands down. Downtown whg had so many bars in walking distance. The island had over 20 bars in the 70 s. I grew up there. Never had to leave or drive. It was Great.
Ralph S February 2, 2016 What about Tom’s on Edgington Lane where the bowling alley is now? Absolutely the cleanest place in town! The girls from St. Joseph’s Academy used to do their homework there. Great place 50-60 yrs ago. Log in to Reply
Jay D February 2, 2016 “a 2:00 am breakfast at the Pancake house downtown or Mary’s Kitchen by the Market House.” Tom, I’m pretty sure it was “Terry’s” Kitchen. Man oh man, all the gals posting their memories of the old Wheeling bars. I remember every one of YOU! LOL! Log in to Reply
Tom February 1, 2016 The Office Lounge , Cork and Bottle , McClure Hotel ( Kings Court) , Tin Alan Alley. Fort Henry Billards all had Down Town Wheeling hopping every night, add a “Suffering Bastard “from The Peking Gardens and the dancers at Hazels and you were ready for a 2:00 am breakfast at the Pancake house downtown or Mary’s Kitchen by the Market House. Hoowa …..And then catch the final show at the Palace. Where have all the flowers gone !!!!!!! Log in to Reply
Bill Koegler February 1, 2016 “Pap” Cain moved his business form the Bank building and “retooled” the “Hunting and Fishing Club”. The Villa was where we ( The WLU Rowdies) hung out and studied for tests…albeit over a pitcher or two and a cheese plate. However, the most memorable was the “live” TV broadcast of the Vietnam Draft Lottery in early 1970, as we had all just become eligible and our college deferments were over…yes, we actually graduated.. Lots of pitchers, no crying, my number was 62, we were told that anything under 120 was a sure ticket to “NAM”, there were 10 of us, 7 had numbers under 120, and we all joined the US Army reserves in Bellaire the next day…. our friend who had a number in the 300’s had “flat feet” and poor eye site and wold have been rejected anyway, but, as the highest number…he had the privilege of “Buying” all night.. Log in to Reply
Jay D February 1, 2016 A friend and myself were out on dates with our girlfriends. We had dinner at the Peking Garden on 12th St. then went over for drinks across the street to the Cork & Bottle. That place used to have “Turtle Races” for whatever reason. When our girls walked in with their Chinese leftovers in those little white cartoons the Cork & Bottle patrons noticed that and accused us of bringing in our own turtle “ringers” to win the races. Too funny. Log in to Reply
Jay D February 1, 2016 The Club Villa in Warwood moved from below the bank to another basement location a few blocks north. You entered down a secluded and dimly lit, long, narrow hallway then down carpeted steps to the door with a buzzer. A dark, cozy, friendly, uncrowded neighborhood pub. Great place for a quiet date fueled with a large or small pitcher(s). It was originally owned by retired county and city official Hal Kain who ran it with a cordial but strict discipline. Ownership later changed to local sports writer Cliff McWilliams. It started getting more popular and it’s decline quickly came when the West Liberty crowd descended on it and it became a raucous mess. The Woodsdale Eagle Inn II was THE place in the mid-late 70’s. Many wonderful divorces started out in that place. Log in to Reply
Debby Koegler February 1, 2016 OK, lets go “Way Back”, Club Villa in Warwood under the Bank, Jolly Roger… same location as the Hilltop, Pittsburgh Bands in the early 70’s, Hunting and Fishing Club, another basement Club in Warwood. Log in to Reply
Reta Sivie berman February 24, 2018 Used yo sneak down to Jolly Roger. From PA. Across state lines at 15 with my 18 year old bot friend. Log in to Reply
Jill N. January 31, 2016 About ten yrs ago I was working at the cork & bottle & that place needs lots and lots of work & of it’s still owned by “scandlous pandlous” then I’m sure it’s way over priced. It’s filthy … And not obvious stuff from being closed but w/ damage, mold, roaches ,& rats . I used to look around an think how sad Bc it still has the original booths, atmosphere, style, unique ceiling fans, multiple kitchens & the multiple floors that overlook each other still make the place seem like it should be re done but sadly I think it’s lost any hope it had. Log in to Reply
Jim Simpson December 29, 2016 Ernie has passed away. One would think the Cork & Bottle would be sold from his estate, taxes owed? His 29th St. steakhouse sold at auction. I believe the windmill at the top of Wheeling hill may be part of his estate as well. Log in to Reply
Anonymous December 29, 2016 Ernie has passed now and had not been same for years due to a stroke. Log in to Reply
Sandy January 31, 2016 The Office Lounge was across from the McLure. They used to have killer live music. That was a great bar triangle, McLure, Office, Ernie’s. There used to be another one down in South Wheeling, PeePeks. They used to have quarter draft beer nights, where you could bring ANY size mug you wanted and they’d fill it up for a quarter. I’m not sure how I’m alive after being there but wow, we used to have a good time. I think the building is occupied by a non-bar business now. Oh, and the Knotty Pines is still open, but it is now CJ’s Irish Pub. But one that is closed was going up the hill between south Wheeling and Bethlehem, the Silver Rail. It was a total dive…that’s really all I remember about it. And you totally forgot the Eagle, which was the place to go dancing and drinking back in the day. It’s that Chinese buffet now. There was also one over on the street across from Riesbeck’s, but I can’t remember the name of it, so we must have had fun there! And what about the one going out National Road that had the giant plastic beer bottles outside? They had the greatest BBQ sandwiches. OMG but I had way too much fun in the 80s and 90s, can you tell? Log in to Reply
Debbie January 31, 2016 Tropicana and Lou’s Voo Doo I thought would have made the list. However they were on the island. I remember Ernies Cork And bottle had vintage looking phones on each table. Every table had a nu.bet and you could call (like a intercom) each table if you were to shy to walk up and talk or ask for a dance. Log in to Reply
Sherry October 24, 2017 A group of us had a great time at Lou’s Voo-Doo on Wheeling Island. It was always packed – Wall To Wall with people. Log in to Reply
Sherry October 25, 2017 My friends and I went to Lou’s Voo Doo most of the time. We made many friends there. David Mercer stopped in a couple of times. He had just passed his boards. He is now Dr. Mercer at Wheeling Hospital. Log in to Reply
Tessa January 31, 2016 I don’t think Capt. Ed’s sucked… Also, the Office Lounge was Across from the McClure it is now the Moose club.. This article has a few other facts wrong. Log in to Reply
Sharon Marshall RN January 31, 2016 The Office lounge was right across the street from the McClure hotel lounge and the 2formed a triangle with the cork and bottle. In the late 1970’s we used to travel from one to the other, depending on the night of the week and who had shown up there…Great memories… Log in to Reply
john January 31, 2016 what? No Tin Pan Alley? It was the place to be. And to be seen! Log in to Reply
Tina January 31, 2016 Dancing to the Achey Breaky @ the M&K lounge in Warwood, lived right across the street after my divorce in the 90s. Great memories!! Log in to Reply
Rom September 9, 2017 I remember the M&K, but had forgotten the name until I saw this post – So many cool clubs in the 70’s and 80’s … Great Memories!!! Log in to Reply
Sherry October 25, 2017 My friends and I hung out there every weekend. What a fun place it was!! Log in to Reply
Richard January 31, 2016 I remember listening to Amy Lancione sing at the M&k lounge in the mid eighties. Log in to Reply
Steve Criniti January 31, 2016 How about Wednesday Wing Night at Twist & Shout? Those ladies treated us like sons! Log in to Reply
Brent January 31, 2016 Wow, awesome list. I wish I would have been able to experience some of these places today! Log in to Reply
Pam January 31, 2016 Around the 1978-80’s does anyone remember The Whistlestop or The Checkerboard? Log in to Reply
Anonymous June 16, 2016 I remmber the checkerboard I used to go with elm grove crewgreat tme Log in to Reply
Harold T. Holmes December 30, 2016 yes, where Figarettis is now, the Whistle stop, was 1980-1981>>the Train still came thru there twice a day for Tunnel green>>>. Log in to Reply
Mark January 31, 2016 The Firehouse…really? I think it was only open less than a year! lol Log in to Reply
Anonymous August 18, 2016 I believe The Downunder on Main Street was short lived also but was super fun drinking and playing beach volleyball in the sand . Log in to Reply
Mark January 31, 2016 Chips out by Reisbecks, The Green House on Kruger Street, The Cardinal Inn, Washington Ave and the legendary Tiki Hut in Woodsdale. Log in to Reply
Anonymous December 29, 2016 Thanks Mark, Chip’s was owned by my dad! Chip Marshall. Great memories! Log in to Reply
Michele January 31, 2016 Great article…lived in Wheeling in the 70’s and remember many on the list. thanks for the memories Log in to Reply
Karen Corona Merritt January 31, 2016 What a trip down memory lane. We all used to go to Mac’s Club after work at the Pizza Inn. Those were really great days. I also loved Ernie’s Cork and Bottle. Lots of memories made there. Also, The Pirates Cove was great fun. And the Eagle on National Road. Log in to Reply
Tooter January 31, 2016 I was bartender at macs, macs2 in West liberty, swing club, jaybos, and eagle inn. I think eagle has to be a top 5. Log in to Reply
Mary January 31, 2016 Office Lounge was on the corner of the alley on 12th Street, on the Elbys side of the street. We used to go the for lunch all the time, for their chef salad. It was very narrow. Log in to Reply
Paula January 31, 2016 The bar in Clator was the Whistle Stop. The train tracks were right there where the walking trail is now. Don’t forget Peach’s on River Road, Club 17 & A&R Club in Warwood, The Bloody Bucket on Short Creek, and Silver Rail. Log in to Reply
Anonymous January 31, 2016 How about Pepix’s(not sure of spelling) and the Metro. Pepix’s was in South Wheeling on the corner before that playground awesome dance floor that lite up. Many good times their. And the Metro was in now vacant lot across from Riesbecks which also was a good dance club. It was small but fun. Both of these places was in the 80’s. Wish Wheeling would be like it used to be so our kids would have something to look forward to. Log in to Reply
Anonymous January 31, 2016 Peepecks silver rail open new name office lounge still a club Log in to Reply
nancy January 31, 2016 I remember Glassworks, Tin Pan Alley and the Eagle Club and also the Merriment. Log in to Reply
maggie January 31, 2016 What happen to Eugenes in East Wheeling,holiday inn on 16 th st. Lambus on 16 th street spaghetti village. Most of these where right in wheeling Log in to Reply
Linsly91 January 31, 2016 The bar in elm grove was called the Metro! also the Oricle and Orangatan. what about Big Berthas and the My Club? Log in to Reply
Anonymous December 30, 2016 I think Oracle was next to Cork and Bottle and Orangatan was previously the Office Lounge Log in to Reply
Rick January 31, 2016 Don’t forget Harvey’s 1818 where on Thursday you could get a draft with any size glass for a $1.00. As for as the place to go in the early ’80’s was the Eagle II hands-down. Log in to Reply
Dan K March 3, 2016 Oh my – Harvey’s mug night. People would get pretty creative – There was a good story about West Lib Chemistry students bringing in multi liter flasks. Log in to Reply
JR January 31, 2016 Nice post. But you can’t add any other song when discussing Macs other than “Paradise By the Dashboard Light”. Wonderful, wonderful…. Log in to Reply
Anonymous January 31, 2016 Back in the early 90’s I worked at Ernies Cork & Bottle….it was always kinda dead when it came to business. Am shocked The Eagle wasn’t listed here. Log in to Reply
Lisa Marie January 31, 2016 Nice trip down memory lane. What was the name of the bar (early 90’s) that was out by where Riesbecks and Tractor Supply is now? Log in to Reply
BT January 31, 2016 Tin Pan Alley and the Pirates Cove were the best! Thanks for sharing. Log in to Reply
Nannette January 31, 2016 I frequented Tin Pan Alley! It had a great and fun dance floor upstairs. I made a lot of friends there. And I went by myself! Log in to Reply
Michelle Bennington January 31, 2016 I was in a band that played at Captain Ed’s when they had a really bad boating accident on the river. You haven’t lived until the police come in to look over the sides of the barge to see if a missing body is floating close by. Log in to Reply
Ralph Scheuer April 15, 2016 Remember Underglass that was part of Howard Johnsons. A little older crowd. Log in to Reply
Matt January 31, 2016 There was a bar that was situated kinda near the Krogers in Elm Grove. Once inside the entire bar was a scene from space. The walls, dance floor , ceiling was painted with neon colors. With disco lights and neon lights combined with all the alcohol I drank. It made for a good time. Does anybody remember it’s name? Log in to Reply
Melissa January 31, 2016 It sounds like the bar by respecs in elm grove called the metro bar I used to go there to dance and have a good time with friends it no longer there Log in to Reply
Rebecca January 31, 2016 The Eagle was THE place in the early 80s. People who worked at other bars went there to dance. In the late 70s, #9 on the list was called The Whistlestop…any high school kid could get in that place. Log in to Reply
Sherry Simon December 29, 2016 Amen Denise! Brought back a lot of good memories seeing the names of these places! Log in to Reply
Kimberly Amend Bator January 31, 2016 Amend’s bar on Kruger St. Served Coleman’s fish every Fri, cooked by my Aunt Edith. Log in to Reply
nancy taylor January 31, 2016 i think amends also served hot sausage sand. they were really good. Log in to Reply
Anonymous January 31, 2016 What about the Pine Hill Corral out Big Wheeling Creek? There were some parties out there!!! Log in to Reply
Cj January 31, 2016 I remember do many of these places but how come there is no mention of The Lion Head Log in to Reply
Kim January 31, 2016 For several years I was the main DJ at The original Glassworks Lounge in Oglebay’s Wilson a Lodge and then at Eagle II —- my vantage point provided a one of a kind view!! Log in to Reply
Barb January 31, 2016 Does no one remember Lou’s Voo Doo Club (downstairs) with the flashing lighted panels in the elevated dance floor and the waterfall wall? Lou had live bands back in the 1970’s. It was the place to be Wednesday through Sunday The bar is still on the Island. Log in to Reply
Anonymous January 31, 2016 Oh yes, danced there all the time. Realized years later that really was a fire trap! Log in to Reply
Melissa January 31, 2016 I loved dancing at the Voo Doo and met my husband there in 1973. Was hoping somebody would mention it. Log in to Reply
Julias February 14, 2017 Yes, It was a fun place….And they had the best restrooms for the women! Log in to Reply
Brenda January 31, 2016 I am surprised that there is no mention about Tin Pan Alley, The Merrymint & Club VooDoo. Log in to Reply
Bob Dorris January 31, 2016 In the mid 70’s I had just returned from a trip to Florida where Disco had taken over the Clubs all over the state. I approached Jim Coyne, the owner and told him what I had seen. He took me to the second floor of Tin Pan Ally and said maybe we could fix this up into a Disco. I said yes it could. About a month later he opened The Attic Disco. It was a big success. With in the next year three ore Disco clubs opened in Wheeling. Log in to Reply
Jo Lynne Nugent January 31, 2016 Before Jaybo’s it was the Rendezvous. The Office Lounge was on the north side of 12th street, in a hole in the wall between Chapline & Market (or was it between Eoff & Chapline?). It served great beef & Cheese hoagies. For a time in the early 90’s they staged poetry readings upstairs, which later were moved to the upstairs of the Cork & Bottle. Log in to Reply
Feliz Navidad August 2, 2017 Thanks for remembering the poetry readings, called “The Empty Step”. They were held once a month upstairs at the Cork and Bottle about the time of the first war with Iraq. They usually had a poet read original works, then had an open mike. It went strong for about two years. It moved because the room was getting crowded with so many patrons! Alas, the move to a new venue killed the readings. Log in to Reply
Scott Davis January 31, 2016 The Office was on 12th Street….where the Moose Club is today Log in to Reply
Michele January 31, 2016 Yes, I thought so too. (The Office on 12th) I thought cross the street from the side of the McClure Hotel. Log in to Reply
dr dng January 31, 2016 Cork & Bottle… Best disco bar of the ‘ 70’s. Was a unique setting. If Wheeling rebounds it has potential. – The Eagle Inn’s has to be in the top 10. It was the place to be for many years. – Going back to the ’60’s the Hilltop was the place (Rt 88 & Peters Run) Made a short return about 5 years ago and disappeared again. Why? – – Log in to Reply
Sheila January 31, 2016 And still existing for a few years now and popular spot the 19th hole Log in to Reply
Staci January 31, 2016 Well, I am prejudice, but Chip’s Club in the Grove was my favorite watering hole! Log in to Reply
Crystal W. January 31, 2016 I worked at Graceland when I was a freshman in college. I remember Bill and Joann vividly. He was quite the schmoozer. The bands on Fridays always had the place hopping and the booze was always flowing, so the tips were great, especially for a college student. I visited once more around 2000, and it must have been right before they closed. The food was still greasy and rhe music was still pumping, but it was an almost comical scene. The Eagle, where AC Buffet now sits, was loud, great for dancing and even better if you were underage because I know our group was never carded and I am pretty sure I never once bought my own drink there. They would just show up in front of me, all sweet and delicious, usually paid for by some middle aged man hoping to score. We always went in groups so we wouldn’t make a stupid mistake of actually going home drunk with someone. Hawk’s, in south Wheeling, was one of the best if you wanted to hang with your bestie and lay low, just getting poo faced, listening to music or just the conversation around the bar. There was never any worry about getting busted for underage drinking unless you made the stupid mistake of driving home. Your best bet was to find a nearby friend to crash with or just call an older sibling. Captain Ed’s was about the same atmosphere, but the only time I ever saw a lot of people there was when we brought them in ourselves. Leaving to go home was always scary because we knew we were drunk and we knew that once misstep amd they would be pulling our body from the locks in New Martinsville in a couple of days. Good times. Good times. Log in to Reply
Sue January 31, 2016 What about Tin Pan Alley? Three floors of Music and some pretty cool bands. Acoustic on the bottom floor, Brown and Eddy, Kim and Ed and Kiddog! Middle floor was a disco and top floor Jazz. I sat at the bar with friends when Billy Joel was in town for a concert at the Capitol Music Hall during his Piano Man years. He bought us all a drink and sat and BS’ed with us for quite a while. My favorite Wheeling Bar ever. Sad to know its a ghost bar.
Korin June 19, 2016 Hawks Lounge was an awesome bar!! So many good times and wonderful people that became a second family to many! Wild nights of drinking with close friends and family, then to be able to walk a half a block up to get ur grub on with an amazing slice of pizza top with mounds extra cheese and banana peppers from the famous, one and only Tony’s Pizza!! Great memories! I would love to be able to have one last drink at Hawks Lounge and then go get a slice from Tony’s pizza!! ????
Kris January 31, 2016 The Lions Club, it was on Market Street across from the old Stone and Thomas building. That place was always packed just like the Swing Club. Log in to Reply
Anonymous February 1, 2016 The Hilltop was a popular place for “High Schoolers” way back in the late 1930’s. When I was teenagers!! Log in to Reply
Tim C. November 19, 2016 Nobody mentions Fabulous Fannies, the hotel next to the suspension bridge. I bartended there in 1979. and 1980. Small but fun place. Owned by the Boury Bros. Log in to Reply
Anonymous May 5, 2017 What was the bar before this? Or may i ask if there was another bar located aound back downstairs in 1660s?