The oldest operation bar in Chicago has closed it’s doors. Schaller’s Pump which has been in operation since 1881, closed up according a report published yesterday by the Sun Times. The Bridgeport staple was ran by the Scahller family for it’s entire run holds Chicago’s liquor license No. 6. It endured multiple wars, economic strife, and even Prohibition but it closed it’s doors for good this weekend.

If you are a Chicago White Sox, you likely pre or post gamed at this cozy brick and wood saloon which your dad or unlce told you to go to. I drank there more than a few times, putitng a beer down fast so I could get to my seat in bleachers before the first pitch. This is truly a sad day to lose a beloved Southside gem that has been a part of living and working in the city.

Check out these great reflections of this multi-generational family owned business. It’s really heartwarming to hear Kim Schaller talked about the local luminaries frequenting the bar, the Sox bringing in the World Series trophy into the bar, and the stories that have been shared at one of the greatest bars in Chicago history.