Virginia Inn - 1903

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Wikipedia dates the Virginia Inn to "approximately 1908," and I have not found it listed by name in city guides until 1915. Nevertheless its existence in 1903 appears to be soundly established by photos from that year available at the Washington State Historical Society. A saloon owned by William Herdman begins being listed in the 1904 Polk directory, and continues until prohibition. The lack of an entry in the 1903 Polk, which was generally published early in the year, may further suggest that the bar was founded later that year. The building was constructed in 1901.



Note the mention of the Virginia bar on the handwritten sign furthest left, and partial sign with owners' names (Herdman and McNamara) above the door. (WSHS Photo)

Some sources:
WSHS
WSHS
Wikipedia






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