History

Clasen's Tavern, is a quintessential tavern that has been in existence since 1900 and has successfully prevailed in the small town of Union, Illinois, for the last 117 years—even through the Prohibition of alcohol in the 1920s.

While the Prohibition affected most Tavern owners and caused most to run dry, Clasen's original owner, William Clasen made sure to keep this tavern fully-stocked and his customers well-hydrated, in "secrecy." With the disguise of a post office and ice cream parlor, Clasen's was able to continue all shenanigans in the basement.

After word had spread of Clasen's underground operations, Union, IL, quickly became a local sanctuary and has continued to remain a top destination location. Today, the grand- and great-grandchildren of our 1900 customers are still regulars here. With the majority of the interior design still in its original state and Stanley the Moose still watching over patrons, Clasen's has matured into a Tavern of historic relic.

A location destination, Clasen's Tavern has been entertaining its guests for more than 120 years! William Clasen opened the bar in 1900 so he could play his accordion and piano to entertain his friends. Today, the tavern remains a historic part of the community and a place where friends and family gather.