The Roundhouse Bar

The Round House Bar opened for business as the Columbia Restaurant in June of 1873 according to an article found in the Sandusky Register. The Columbia Restaurant served refreshments including beer, wine and food.  However, the real treat back in those days was ice cream and cottage cheese.  There was no electricity, so the ice had to be cut during the winter months and stored in the Ice House (which is now located on the Put-in-Bay Winery estate) allowing for this summer time favorite.  Banners for ice cream stretched from The Round House across the street to De Rivera Park.  Originally the building was white and the front porch had steps with no railing stretching across the front of the building.  The McCann family purchased the Round House in the early 1950's and painted it the now famous red color. The entire building is wood constructed and for the most part, all original, except for the interior floor and the front porch. The plastered walls have always been a part of the building, and are now adorned by Canoe Bob's murals.  A back bar addition, outside patio and retail shop have now been added to the historic Round House Bar.   The Round House Bar has always been known for its neon "WHISKEY" light above the front door, live entertainment and buckets of beer.  This currently holds true to this day.