Historic Norfolk Tavern in Port Dover faces demolition, endangering local music scene

Port Dover, Ontario - Nestled along the picturesque shores of Lake Erie, Port Dover has long been known as a haven for beachgoers seeking respite from the bustling city life However, hidden within its quaint streets lies a piece of local music history that is now teetering on the brink of extinction. The Norfolk Tavern, one of the last remaining legendary venues from the early 19th century, is set to close its doors at the end of this month, leaving musicians and music enthusiasts grappling with a profound loss

With its origins dating back to the year 1812, The Norfolk Tavern has stood as a testament to the vibrant music scene that once thrived in this part of Ontario Alongside other iconic establishments like The Benny in Brantford, The Queens Tavern in Ayr, The New Royal Tavern Paris, and the old Paris Inn, The Norfolk Tavern provided local bands with not only a stage to perform on but also a reliable source of income.

These venues, strategically located halfway between Windsor and Toronto, served as perfect stopovers for touring bands, enticing them with a dedicated fanbase and a thriving musical atmosphere. Memories of those vibrant summer nights in the 1980s still linger in the minds of many who recall Toronto rock band Triumph gracing the stage of The Paris Inn, with the streets of downtown Paris lined with roaring Harleys Though too young to gain entry, us youthful onlookers basked in the electrifying music, yearning for the day when we could experience it firsthand

Other notable acts, such as Tom Cochrane & Red Rider, also left their mark on these historic venues,

However, the passage of time has taken its toll, and The Norfolk Tavern, like the Royal in Paris and the Queens in Ayr, now faces an uncertain fate The approaching demolition looms large, making way for yet another condominium complex, erasing not only a cherished landmark but also a vital platform for musicians to share their craft.

Continued page 12

While acknowledging the structural challenges posed by these aging buildings, the loss of these old hotel bars and taverns has a profound impact on the local music scene The absence of comparable replacements leaves musicians adrift, searching for alternative venues that can offer them a platform to connect with audiences and sustain their livelihoods. It is a heart-wrenching realization that the spaces once filled with melodies and harmonies will soon be silenced, leaving behind an irreplaceable void.

Amidst this disheartening turn of events, there is a glimmer of hope for the town of Paris. The Arlington and The New Paris Inn, two stalwarts of the past, have risen from the ashes, once again hosting local bands and rekindling the magic of Paris's vibrant nightlife As the world changes and challenges mount, these remaining haunts from Paris's past stand as a beacon of resilience, reminding us of the rich tapestry of culture that once adorned the town's streets. As the sun sets on The

Come see the Norfolk Tavern in Port Dover before it gets torn down!

Last Call Nov. 30th

Norfolk Tavern, the imminent loss hangs heavy in the air, a poignant reminder of the impermanence of cherished landmarks. For those who have witnessed the ebb and flow of Port Dover's music scene, the closure of The Norfolk Tavern marks the end of an era. The echoes of past melodies will linger, but the future of live music in this idyllic town remains uncertain. One can only hope that future generations will find a way to preserve the spirit of these historic venues, ensuring that the harmonies of Port Dover continue to resonate for years to come.