Step Into a Bygone Era and Experience the Stock Exchange Saloon's Captivating Legacy
The Muheim Legacy: The Birth of an Iconic Landmark
In the heart of Bisbee, Arizona, stands a building that is more than just bricks and mortar; it's a living testament to the town's vibrant history called the Stock Exchange Saloon, a structure steeped in the legacy of Joseph Maria Muheim Sr., a Swiss ƩmigrƩ and brewer who built this two-story commercial block in 1905. The building, displaying influences of the Italianate style, was originally designed to house the Bisbee Stock Exchange, two stores, a saloon, and the Edelweiss CafƩ.
Brewery Days: Where Miners Found Solace
During its early years, the building was home to Muheim's original "Brewery," a sanctuary for the hardworking copper miners who were the backbone of Bisbee's thriving industry. This period is fondly remembered as the "Brewery Days," where the saloon served as a haven for miners, offering them not just drinks but a sense of community.
The Expansion Era: A Sprawling Footprint in Brewery Gulch
As time passed, the property underwent extensive expansion. Its footprint now encompasses the area of lower Brewery Gulch and extends up to the parking space in front of the modern-day St Elmo Bar. This marked the exciting "Expansion Era" in the building's history, a time when the establishment was more than just a saloon; it was a cornerstone of the community.
Bear Tales: The Saloon's Most Unlikely Patron
For nine golden years, the establishment thrived as the Brewery Saloon, quenching the thirst of miners and meeting their recreational needs. It was during this period that a local miner introduced an unlikely patron into the saloonāa black bear cub. The bear quickly became a constant attraction, its antics adding a unique charm to the establishment. However, the bear met an untimely end, leaving behind a saga of "Bear Tales" that continue to captivate patrons to this day.
The Stock Exchange Saloon Era: Adapting to Changing Times
The introduction of Prohibition in 1914 marked a significant turning point for the Brewery Saloon. It transformed into the Stock Exchange Saloon to adapt to the changing times. A brokerage firm, Duey and Overlock, relocated to the main floor of the establishment, marking the inception of the Stock Exchange Saloon era. One of the most distinct features was the north bar wall that was converted into a stock board. It received ticker tape from E.F. Hutton, and stories about this unique wall became a part of local lore, fondly remembered as "Stock Board Stories."
Stock Board Stories: The Wall That Talks Business
Today, the Stock Exchange Saloon still stands tall, paying homage to its glorious past. Its most iconic feature, the preserved stock board, is encased behind glass for patrons to admire. A visit to this extraordinary saloon offers a chance to uncover the vibrant history and myriad personalities that have shaped Bisbee over the years.