Harbor Bar founder’s Marilyn and Dick Graw purchased the Wisconsin tavern on the island across the Mississippi River from Red Wing from “Crazy” Frank and Avenelle Burner on July 1, 1964. They operated it until 1977 when their son Brad Smith started to take over running the family business. In 1984, Brad purchased the bar and liquor store from his parents. Brad added the kitchen in 1989 turning the liquor store and drinking establishment into a full service restaurant and bar. Brad’s son Josh is now currently helping run the business. The two added the marina with 32 slips in 2006 bringing another element to help compliment the property so beautifully located along the banks of the mighty Mississippi. Brad & Josh welcome everyone to come and enjoy their piece of paradise along the river and try some of their specialties coming out of their kitchen and sit and relax by the river. They just recently survived another flood and have finished their clean up, and Brad remembers his mother telling him, “We operate through mud, flood and blood” and Brad says this motto is still true!
To get the party started, the Chamber Staff and Ambassadors will be at the Harbor on July 11 at 4:30PM to present Brad a recognition certificate thanking him for his support of the Red Wing area business community over the past 50 years. Following the Recognition Event, there’s an entire weekend of festivities beginning with The Blues Fest kicking off with The Instigators performing from 6:30-10PM. On July 12, the Everett Smithson Band will be performing from Noon-4PM, the Back Channel Blues Band from 4:30-8:30PM, and Pearl Brothers from 9PM-1AM. On July 13, Willie B Blues Band is performing from Noon-4PM. Sunday at 3PM, past and present Harbor Bar employees are being treated to a free keg of beer and encouraged to come and share their stories and memories of working at the Harbor Bar over the years. Come join in all the fun and wish the Harbor Bar a Happy 50 years!
