HISTORIC PAVLAS TAVERN - Step into Moulton’s iconic old-school saloon.

MOULTON’S NIGHTLIFE

LIKE IT USED TO BE Small-Town Hangout

MOULTON’S PAVLAS TAVERN OFFERS PATRONS A COLD DRINK AND A GOOD TIME

by Michelle Banse Stokes, photos by Emily Henderson

Certain things are passed on from generation to generation. Often one will inherit their grandparents’ China, family photo albums or Mom’s wedding ring. But instead of receiving some common family memento, Willie Pavlas was entrusted with the family tavern. He’s kept it as original as possible, with its wood-carved barback and an old-school jukebox.

“I bought it from my Aunt Vlasta and Uncle George in July of 2018,” said Pavlas. “They owned it since 1959. Although my family is from the Moulton area, I grew up in Houston. I came down on weekends to see Grandpa and Grandma. The tavern was my dad’s brother’s place. I grew up in the tavern on the weekends. When my aunt had to close the doors, my cousins pushed me to buy it and keep it in the family; keep the tradition going.” MOULTON, TEXAS | 14

MOULTON’S NIGHTLIFE

There’s nothing rowdy here ... we’re a family-orientated business that caters to our customers.

And it is that tradition that keeps Pavlas, who still has a day job in Houston, unlocking the old, wooden doors in downtown Moulton every weekend.

“It’s my weekend gig,” shared Pavlas. “I’m open every weekend, Friday and Saturday. There’s always a good following of locals there. I grew up in that place, so I knew their faces. When I did open it back up, the locals all came back. We also have a few out-of-towners. Our Facebook page keeps people updated on any events we’re having.”

At least once a month, Pavlas’s wife, Michele, accompanies him to Pavlas Tavern to help with a live music event. They bring in different bands and musical acts, mostly local. But even when there isn’t any special crooner in the house, patrons enjoy a round at the domino table, shooting a friendly game of pool, or bellying up to the old bar to catch up on the local grapevine.

“There’s nothing rowdy here,” laughed Pavlas. “We’re a family-oriented business that caters to our customers. Any event going on, I usually donate to it – the community has been good to us. We want to continue to have a place that people can come to and enjoy themselves. Cash only, no smoking, a simple country tavern.”

Pavlas Tavern is located at 114 Main Street.