WYANDOTTE, Mich. — Nestled at the intersection of 9th and Vinewood streets, the Gold Star Bar stands as a historic landmark, proudly holding the title of the oldest bar in Wyandotte. For over a century, this establishment has not only served drinks but also become a cherished community hub, encapsulating the essence of local traditions and camaraderie.
Recently, Gold Star Bar was highlighted during WXYZ Detroit’s “Let’s Talk” event, which aimed to shine a light on the significance of local treasures. Current owner Joanne Cristoff, who took over the bar in 1995, emphasizes that its atmosphere resembles a family living room more than a typical bar. “If we don’t know you, we’re going to know you before you leave,” Cristoff noted, showcasing her commitment to creating a warm, inviting environment.
Maintaining its charm, Gold Star Bar features a no-nonsense menu that has remained unchanged since 1923. Upholding the tradition of being cash-only, Cristoff intends to honor the bar’s legacy for generations to come. “I remember as a little kid going to places like this, where everyone knew my dad. Kids would sit at a table with a pop and a bag of chips, and that’s what we still do here too,” she recalled, highlighting the nostalgia ingrained in the establishment.
Cristoff’s motivation for acquiring the bar was not to revamp it but to ensure its survival. “I just wanted to keep it running; it’s a neighborhood bar, which you don’t see anymore,” she explained. The bar’s rich history began with its original owner, John Bozymowski, who poured his heart and soul into the establishment.
The Gold Star Bar has weathered numerous historical challenges, including Prohibition, the Great Depression, and a devastating fire in the 1950s. Cristoff shared a poignant memory from the fire, when “the neighborhood came to help” in a rescue attempt, only managing to save one child. Photos and articles from that day adorn the walls, serving as a reminder of the bar’s resilient spirit and the solidarity of the community.
Regular patrons like Amanda Mjaeski, a visitor for over two decades, reflect on the unique atmosphere. “Every time we bring someone new in, we show it to them. It’s pretty astounding that this place is still here in the shape that it’s in and that it’s still going,” she remarked. Fellow regular Anthony Darrington, who started visiting 15 years ago, described his experience of being welcomed into what feels more like a family than just a bar: “I was embraced pretty much immediately, and then I found out that Gold Star Bar is really not the Gold Star Bar; it’s really the Gold Star family.”
As Gold Star Bar continues to thrive in an ever-evolving world, it symbolizes more than just a location to grab a drink; it embodies a rich legacy and a tightly-knit community that appreciates and preserves its history.
