In follow-up to our previous report of the impending closure of Neir’s Tavern due to a rent hike, we are pleased to announce the historic bar located in Queens, New York, will remain open for business. Late Friday, news outlets reported that city leaders assisted Neir’s owner Loy Gordon in brokering a deal with the building’s landlords to save the bar; more details from the New York Daily News can be found here–“Last Call Averted!”

Aside from Neir’s Tavern being a beloved watering hole for the Woodhaven community, the bar has been in operation 190 years–originally opened in 1829 as The Blue Pump Room for racing fans of the nearby Union Race Course by track proprietor, Cadwallader Colden. Read more about Colden, a.ka. “An Old Turfman” in the Times’ Great Match Race series about the 1823 match race between American Eclipse and Sir Henry. Colden provided his own account of the match for posterity; while riding horseback, Colden followed the horses as they raced around the Union track for three thrilling heats.

Let’s raise a glass to toast Neir’s, its committed owner, Loy Gordon, the city leaders and bar patrons who rallied to save it from closure, and last but not least, Cadwallader Colden! We look forward to celebrating the tavern’s 200th anniversary in 2029, and many more.