
Ghosts and History Intertwined at The Ear Inn
Located in the heart of Downtown Manhattan, The Ear Inn stands as a historical landmark dating back to the 1770s. Originally a private house belonging to James Brown, an aide to George Washington, it's fascinating to think that the spirits of the early American Revolution still linger within its walls. Over the years, it has transformed from an apothecary to a robust bar that has seen a plethora of New York history, including the Prohibition era when it morphed into a speakeasy.
The Bar's Transformation Through Time
The Ear Inn became a tavern in 1835, under the ownership of Thomas Cloke, an Irish immigrant who catered to sailors and longshoremen. This venue's character thrived amidst the chaos of post-Revolutionary America, even adopting the nickname “The Green Door” during Prohibition. Interestingly, it was fortunate enough to slip through the Landmark Commission's regulations, thus avoiding the long process of bureaucratic approval for a new sign, morphing its 'BAR' sign into the clever 'EAR.'
The Haunted Legacy of Mickey the Sailor
A bar is often only as good as its ghost story, and The Ear Inn doesn’t disappoint with tales of its resident ghost, Mickey the Sailor. Legend has it that Mickey frequented the bar until one fateful night when he drank himself to an early grave. His spirit remains tethered to the bar, with patrons recounting tales of mysteriously drained beer glasses that seem to disappear under the watchful eye of the ghostly drinker. This peculiar haunting adds not just character to The Ear Inn, but connects it ritually with the bygone era of sailors and spirits that frequented its bar stools.
Exploring New York's Ghostly Haunts
The Ear Inn is not alone in its spectral companionship. Similar establishments scattered across Manhattan boast their own ghost stories, like One If by Land, Two If by Sea, known for hosting both diners and spirits alike. Ghostly tales abound in NYC's corners, from the Colonial hauntings at Fraunces Tavern, where Revolutionary spirits still revel, to newer bars that whisper of dark histories wrapped in the embrace of modern nightlife.
Conclusion
If you find yourself in the bustling streets of New York City, consider taking a moment to indulge in a drink at The Ear Inn. Not only do you get a taste of history, but you might also just catch a glimpse of Mickey, making each visit more than just a refreshing beverage but a connection to the past.
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