The Hitching Post Saloon: Ohio’s Oldest Bar
A Timeless Tavern in Darrtown
Nestled along the quiet stretch of Hamilton-Richmond Road in Darrtown, Ohio, The Hitching Post Saloon stands as a living relic of American history. Established in 1817, it holds the title of Ohio’s oldest continuously operating bar, a claim backed by over two centuries of serving travelers, locals, and curious visitors. From its humble beginnings as a stagecoach stop to its current role as a beloved community gathering spot, The Hitching Post is more than a bar—it’s a testament to resilience, camaraderie, and the enduring spirit of small-town Ohio.
A Stagecoach Stop Turned Tavern
The Hitching Post was founded by Conrad Darr, a pioneer who saw opportunity in the bustling Hamilton-Fairborn stagecoach route. Named for the crude tying rail where travelers hitched their horses, the tavern quickly became a vital hub for weary coach passengers seeking rest, a meal, or a drink. In its early days, a gallon of whiskey cost just 50 cents (75 if the tavern supplied the jug), and distilling was a local trade, with figures like Abram Darr and Mitchell Marshall running stills nearby. Whiskey even served as currency during bountiful corn harvests, underscoring the tavern’s deep roots in the region’s economy.
Over the decades, the bar changed hands, with respected community members like Aaron Chamberlain and William Kirkpatrick taking the helm. By the mid-19th century, it had weathered ownership transitions, from Abram Darr to the Kiger family, John McMechan during the Civil War, and later Charles Otto and Jacob Hinkle. Each owner added to its legacy, preserving its role as a social anchor in Darrtown.
The Prohibition era (1920–1933) posed a challenge, but the Hitching Post adapted cleverly. The tavern briefly transformed into a grocery store under Lou and Anne Shuck, maintaining its place in the community. After Prohibition’s repeal, it resumed its saloon status, reclaiming its liquor license and welcoming back patrons.
The Red Huber Era and Christmas Cheer
No chapter in The Hitching Post’s story shines brighter than the tenure of Earl “Red” Huber, who owned the bar from 1949 into the 1970s. Known for his generosity, Red turned the tavern into a regional institution. His annual Christmas parties for local children became legendary, drawing hundreds from nearby towns like Hamilton, Oxford, and even Indiana. In 1956, Red’s team handed out 1,700 gift packages, and when supplies ran low, he distributed crisp dollar bills. The events featured Santa Claus (played by a local truck driver, Walter Suldovsky) and autographed baseballs from Darrtown native Walter “Smokey” Alston, the famed manager of the National League Dodgers.
Red’s Hitching Post was a magnet for diverse crowds, including Miami University students and faculty from nearby Oxford, where stricter alcohol laws limited beer to 3.2% strength. The tavern’s stronger brews and warm atmosphere made it a five-mile pilgrimage worth taking. Local lore also whispers of a notorious visitor: Chicago gangster John Dillinger, who reportedly frequented the bar while hiding out at a nearby farmhouse, adding a dash of intrigue to its history.
A Modern-Day Gem
Today, The Hitching Post Saloon, located at 4319 Hamilton Richmond Rd, Oxford, OH, thrives under the stewardship of owners like Pat and Tasha Cain, who reopened it in 2014 after a brief closure. The bar retains its vintage charm, with creaky floors and a cozy ambiance that feels like stepping back in time. Yet, it’s far from a museum piece. Live music fills the air on weekends, featuring local bands and open mic nights, while the menu boasts better-than-average bar fare—think fried green tomato sliders, cheeseburgers, and crispy onion strings. The beer flows cold, and the staff’s friendly service earns consistent praise, with a 4.7 Google rating from over 430 reviews.
The saloon’s atmosphere is a draw in itself. A fire pit invites patrons to linger outside, and the occasional whiff of history—some say ghostly presences—adds to its allure. At 208 years old, The Hitching Post is often called one of Ohio’s most haunted bars, a claim that sparks curiosity among paranormal enthusiasts. Whether you’re there for the spirits or the spirits, the bar delivers a memorable experience.
A Community Anchor
The Hitching Post’s staying power lies in its ability to evolve while remaining true to its roots. It has hosted countless “Darrtown Gatherings,” from the 2008 grand reopening under Sean Hurley to bicentennial celebrations in 2014. Longtime residents like Ron Wiley, whose grandparents owned the bar from 1932 to 1949, recall its role in fostering connections. For newer residents, it’s a place to mingle with locals, enjoy trivia nights, or savor a meal in a setting steeped in history.
The saloon’s significance extends beyond Darrtown. As Ohio’s oldest bar, it’s a pilgrimage site for history buffs and road trippers, featured in outlets like Buckeye Tavern magazine and Butler County Connect. Its proximity to Oxford and Hamilton makes it an accessible detour for those exploring Butler County’s charm.
Visit The Hitching Post
Whether you’re chasing history, a cold beer, or a taste of small-town Ohio, The Hitching Post Saloon delivers. Open daily (closed Mondays), it welcomes families until 10 p.m., when it becomes a 21-and-over spot. With ample parking across the street and a menu that surprises with its quality, it’s a place where you can raise a glass to the past while enjoying the present. As one Yelp reviewer put it, “Great place to drink and grab some bar food with friends. Get out and support some great locals!”
So, next time you’re near Darrtown, hitch your wagon—or your car—to The Hitching Post. You’ll be joining a tradition that’s been pouring since 1817.
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