Tales

Told by Nancy Faass on January 06, 2007

The Barleycorn is a tremendous asset to the neighborhood - it is warm, cozy, classy. The people who frequent it aren't noisy.

How many neighborhoods can boast of such as sweet resource? Replacing it with a more commercial or upscale endeavor would be a mistake indeed and could create ill will toward the new owner.

Right now a new coffee shop down the street is failing. Only certain businesses have the right combination to thrive here. Clearly the Barleycorn is one of them.

We encourage the new owner to "do the right thing."

Told by John & Susie / Susie & John on January 05, 2007

Quite a few years ago, there was a fire in our apartment building located just up the street from the John Barleycorn. The fire occurred just after 2:00 AM and sent the building's 40 or so pajama-clad residents out into the chilly night. Dan, one of the Barleycorn's friendly bartenders, had been preparing to go home after just closing the bar. Upon hearing all the sirens, he walked to the top of the block and saw us and all of our neighbors waiting and watching as the firefighters rushed in and out of the building.

Without hesitation, he invited everyone to wait down at the Barleycorn instead of standing out in the cold. Once inside he relit the fireplace, offered us coffee and made sure everyone was as comfortable as possible. Eventually the firefighters gave the ok for us to enter the building (thankfully, there had only been minimal damage).

I won't soon forget the sight of all of my neighbors, looking a bit shocked and worried, but happy to be inside the warm Barleycorn.

Likewise, my neighbors and I aren't likely to forget the kindness Dan exhibited that eventful night.

Told by Alex on January 05, 2007

While I don't really have a tale to tell, I would like to express my feelings for the Barleycorn.

I feel that the Barleycorn is a great asset to this neighborhood. The staff at the bar always has a kind word to say, or a smile on their face when you walk in. With having the patrons coming in and out of the establishment it is a great crime deterer as there is usually someone outside.

I have brought many friends here and they always ask if when can we go again. The place is warm and cozy, and a wonderful place for friends to get caught up on each others lives.

I hope that the Barleycorn is given the opportunity to have the doors open for another 40 years!

Told by Denis Healy on January 04, 2007

July 1970 was my 1st time at the JB.

I visit whenever in town.

Only good memories of good friends and good times.

We need more places like this on the planet.

Friend to you all, Denis Healy.

Told by Gary Goldsborough on January 03, 2007

One September evening in 1989 my brother and I moved into an apartment on Clay Street near Hyde. After settling our meager belongings the first order of business was to find someplace for a couple of cold ones. Being lazy and shortsighted, we decided to travel downhill and save the uphill schlep for after we were sufficiently juiced. With such decisions are lives changed. We soon found ourselves bellying up to the ancient curved bar at the John Barleycorn. Larry greeted us, checked our ages, then poured us what would be the first of many, many drinks. The company and conversation were both more than acceptable and the pub became our regular haunt. We made some fast but lasting friends. A month later the earth decided to move but the patrons did not. We lit candles and drank and talked in the dark.

Over the years our Barleycorn friends have come and gone. Some are dead and some are living. None are forgotten. I met my wife under the "parlor" TV; met my best friend at the bar; brought my new children in to meet their extended family; won card games and lost at dice.

I truly hope the Barleycorn gets to stay as long as Larry wishes to run it. It will be like losing a cherished friend if it closes.