The Santa Fe Saloon, formerly the Santa Fe Club, is one of the oldest continuously-operating saloons in Nevada. While it may very well be the oldest operating saloon in the state, the saloon has decided to call itself the “second-oldest saloon in continuous operation” in Nevada to avoid any myth-busting attempts because “nobody ever argues about being number two” (source).
Located in South Central Nevada in a small town called Goldfield, the saloon opened during a time when Goldfield was actually known as the largest city in Nevada (from 1903-1910). The Goldfield district had been a strong producer of ore since its discovery of gold in 1902. By 1904, Goldfield produced approximately 800 tons of ore valued at $2.3 million, about 30% of the state’s production that year. Goldfield’s population grew quickly and hit a peak of over 30,000 residents in 1906.
When the Santa Fe Saloon first opened in 1905, Goldfield only had one grocery store, two other saloons and two feedlots. By 1907, the flourishing town offered 49 saloons, 27 restaurants, 22 hotels, 21 grocers, and so much more (read more about Goldfield’s glory days on LasVegasNow.com). By 1923, however, multiple fires and a flash flood destroyed many parts of the town, contributing to Goldfield’s quick population decline.
Posted by Jan Kollár on Friday, December 2, 2016
More than 110 years old, the Santa Fe Saloon is one of the very few businesses in Goldfield to remain in continuous operation until present day, and it can be found at the entrance to the mining fields. While the saloon does not serve any food, it does feature eight gaming machines as well as eight motel rooms. It also advertises itself as being home to “Nevada’s Meanest Bartender” for the bold and fearless who wish to visit.
Posted by Darwin Andoe on Thursday, March 2, 2017
If you are looking for a unique film-friendly tourist attraction located in a town rich in history, be sure to check out Santa Fe Saloon.
You can see more current pictures of the saloon on atlasobscura.com.