Neir's Tavern in Queens celebrates 195 years, overcoming challenges and thriving
QUEENS (PIX11) – An iconic Queens establishment, Neir's Tavern, marked a significant milestone this Saturday as it celebrated 195 years of serving the Woodhaven community.
The historic pub has overcome numerous challenges to reach this impressive anniversary, demonstrating remarkable resilience and community spirit.
Joan Decamp, a loyal patron of Neir's Tavern for decades, expressed her enthusiasm for the celebration.
"I always have a good time out here," Decamp, among the many people joining the anniversary festivities, said. "I like the feeling of history. That it's been here and that different eras and that it's a different kind of place."
Neir's Tavern has faced significant obstacles in recent years, including rising rent costs and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Despite these hurdles, the establishment has reached this significant milestone, largely thanks to the support of its dedicated patrons.
A group of committed regulars, known as "Ambassadors," has played a crucial role in keeping Neir's Tavern open.
Vance Barbour, one of the Ambassadors, explained the program's origins.
"We started the program five years ago," Barbour said. "We couldn't come here, and Neir's is not really a tavern per se. It's not really a restaurant. It's like another living room."
The 195th-anniversary celebration featured a street party with music, children's activities, and complimentary food. These festivities highlighted Neir's Tavern's enduring role as a community gathering place. The pub also received its street sign, commemorating this historic milestone.
Loycent Gordon, the owner of Neir's Tavern, views this anniversary as more than just a celebration of the past. "Today, we celebrate a resurgence."
Gordon hopes that Neir's Tavern can inspire other small businesses.
"Right now, we are celebrating the future because we've gotten this far with continuous support from the local community, ambassadors, and our media partners. I think we can be an example that small business can not only be the backbone but also be the future of the community stability, and also just showing the resilience of small businesses in America," Gordon said.
For patrons like Joan Decamp, Saturday's event offered an opportunity to honor their beloved community hub.
As Neir's Tavern continues to grow and celebrates an impressive 195 years, Decamp summarized the community's sentiment, "It's a good neighbor that we want to keep and stay."
Those interested in joining the Neir's Tavern Ambassadors group can find more information on the tavern's Facebook page or its website.