Written in 2004 by Joan Hostetler for NESCO Pub Crawl Fall 2007
901 N Dorman Street
The Dorman Street Saloon has a long history at its corner at Ninth and Dorman Streets in Cottage Home Neighborhood. The building began as a house constructed in 1871 for Joseph Rieger, a German-born carpenter. Soon after the turn of the century, the house was converted into a grocery and eventually the front addition was constructed.
Frequented by John Dillinger
During prohibition the bar sold “near beer,” which had a low-alcohol content. Of course the old-timers will tell you that they sold a lot more than that. Persistent rumors exist that the bar was frequented by John Dillinger, who robbed a nearby bank in 1934.
The owners believe the bar was established in 1908 and has been in continuous operation ever since. Clarence Anacker owned the bar for many years, but an inquiry to a family member was met with a stoic “let’s let them days die.” Later owner Jim Taylor
offered “live” entertainment.
Many Names But Still Called “The Hog”
The tavern has had several names over time, including the Mahogany Bar (shortened
to the Hog, a nickname that has stuck). Mabel Russell purchased the bar in 1982 and
changed the name to May’s Lounge.
Hangout for the Local Laborers
Through the years, the sometimes seedy bar has been a hangout for laborers at nearby
roofing and hardwood companies, employees of Schwitzer-Cummins, and neighbors in
the working-class German and Irish neighborhood.
Local Artist Contributed to the Arts and Crafts Details
Once inside, notice the bar, which came from the old traction terminal station
downtown. The ceramic tiles were made by artist Ernest Batchelder, an Arts and Crafts
ceramist who worked in California.
“Best Dive Bar” by Indianapolis Monthly
Tammy Miller purchased the once-rowdy bar in 2003 and still serves long-time
regulars as well as a younger crowd. The Hog has been named the “Best Dive Bar” by
Indianapolis Monthly three years in a row. Coming this fall the kitchen will reopen and
serve typical pub food along with daily lunch and dinner.
