Al Maag's Saloon

For many years, Lloyd V. Tuttle contributed historic photos and information to the Defiance Crescent-News for his column: "A Backward Glance."  On Monday, September 30, 1963, Mr. Tuttle wrote about a favorite gathering place for some in Defiance - Maag's Saloon.

"Fifty years ago, places where liquor was sold were known as saloons.  Here is a picture of the Al Maag saloon which was located in the room at 406 Clinton St.

Those were the days of the 'he-men.'  Note the cuspidors or spittoons for tobacco juice.  Many men chewed tobacco.  Note the footrail at the bar.  Men stood up and took their whiskey straight.  Al Maag is behind the bar.

Saloons had a screen in front of the bar so that all that could be seen from the outside of those standing was their feet.  There were no women in saloons except in isolated cases where entire families went in, ate dinner and had a few beers.  Saloons closed at 11 p.m. sharp.  They closed tight on Sundays.  Beer was the favorite drink in Defiance.

Al Maag's place was a great gathering place during the First World War.  Although Al was a German, he was bitter against the German government.  Many were the arguments that took place concerning the strategy of the war.

The picture was furnished by Glen Killey, 1301 Jefferson Ave.  His father, George W. Killey, an attorney and justice of the peace, had his office over the Maag place."