The Oldest Bar In Delaware Has A Fascinating History

Delaware is full of historic restaurants. The building that hosts Jessop’s Tavern is nearly 300 years old, and Cantwell’s Tavern dates back to the early 1800s. Neither of these famous places can claim the title of Oldest Bar in Delaware, though… Jessop’s did not start serving until the early 1990s, and Cantwell’s Bridge spent nearly half of its history vacant. So, if neither of them are the oldest bar in Delaware, which place is? You may be surprised to know that a rowdy Trolley Square spot called Kelly’s Logan House is truly the oldest bar in the state.

Before we called the neighborhood Trolley Square, it was a travel hub known as “Forty Acres,” and Kelly’s Logan House was built to accommodate the crowds that began exploring the neighborhood.

Facebook / Kelly’s Logan House The Bar and Restaurant is still located at 1701 Delaware Ave., Wilmington, Delaware 19806 to this day.

In 1864, the Logan House was built as a resort for weary travelers who chose to stop on Forty Acres for the other amenities that were popping up in this Wilmington hub.

Tripadvisor / Angela S.

It quickly gained popularity with those traveling on the B and O railroad. In fact, the guestbook from the 1800s shows that Buffalo Bill, Wild Bill Hickok, John L. Sullivan and Al Capone all either dined or stayed here!