Amelia Island History Hunt

Amelia Island’s Palace Saloon was the last American tavern to close during Prohibition, and it survived that dry era as an ice cream parlor. The saloon was a favorite haunt of the Carnegies, the Rockefellers and other socialites.

Still in the original location, this watering hole’s colorful history began in the late 1800s. According to local historians, the owners of the Saloon were selling liquor until the very last minute before Prohibition took effect. People from neighboring states waited in long lines for their share.

Today visitors can still have a seat at the old bar and enjoy a stiff drink served the same way they’ve been served since the saloons original days.

The photographs shown here are from the late 1960’s era.

An additional fun fact: Fernandina’s current Mayor, Johnny Miller serves as bartender at The Palace Saloon.