The Horn Bar. 62 Thistle Street, Gorbals.

Mr John Nicholson. 1895.

Tthe Horn Bar which sat on 62 Thistle Street, this old pub dated from 1870s. The landlord was then Robert Robin a well known publican who had other pubs in the city including Charlotte Street, Sydney Court off Argyle Street, Elderslie Street and Anderson Quay, his son also named Robert had pubs in Rutherglen Loan and Great Hamilton Street now London Road. The Horn bar was opened in 1894 by a gentleman called John Nicholson who formerly managed the premises and took charge of the proprietors other pub in Govan before taking over the Thistle Street premises. The pub was totally gutted a new family department was added to the pub which was entered from a seperate door, this proved to be a very lucrative business indeed. A new 36 foot mahogany bar counter was installed with a handsome spirit rack and gantry with all the mod cons. The little snugs were cosily furnished and fitted with electric bells the whole establishment was very bright with the use of the very large stained glass windows, panels and mirrors. All the best liquor was stocked at the Horn bar included was the “Horn Club” blend of Scotch Whisky. From its proximity to the Royal Princess Theatre, numerous well known professionals were among Mr Nicholson customers, theatrical newspapers were always at hand.

Interior of Nicholson’s Horn Bar. 1895.

In 1907 a new landlord took over the pub, Mr William Keith took charge and contined until the end of the Fisrt World War. One of the last licensee to run the pub was John Cumming, many will still remember him, the pub closed its doors for the last time in the 1960s when most of the old pubs were demolished. Do you remember this pub? maybe you remember this pub with a different name, if so please get in touch.