In a city known for its jazz, vibrant nightlife, and rich history, Henry’s Uptown Bar stands out as a testament to the enduring spirit of New Orleans. Since 1900, this iconic establishment has been more than just a bar—it’s a living chronicle of the city’s cultural fabric, serving up cold beer, warm smiles, and generations of memories. Owned by the same family for over a century, Henry’s Uptown Bar is a remarkable example of how tradition, community, and a little bit of Irish luck can create something truly timeless.
The Founding Era: The Lees’ Dream
Henry’s Uptown Bar was founded at the turn of the 20th century by Irish immigrants James Lee and Margaret Tully Lee. They arrived in New Orleans, like so many before them, in search of opportunity and a better life. With a modest vision and a lot of hard work, they opened a bar that quickly became a local favorite. The Lees infused their establishment with the warmth and hospitality of their homeland, creating a space where anyone could walk in and feel instantly at home.
From the beginning, the bar was more than just a business for the Lees; it was a community hub where laughter was shared, stories were told, and friendships were forged. The walls of the bar echoed with the sounds of good times, from the clinking of glasses to the hum of lively conversation. Under the Lees’ stewardship, the bar flourished, earning a reputation as a friendly neighborhood spot where patrons could escape the everyday hustle and enjoy a cold drink among friends.
The Crone Legacy: A New Generation Takes Charge
The Lees’ daughter, Dorothy, continued the family tradition by marrying Edward Crone, who became the second-generation owner of the bar. Edward’s entry into the business marked the beginning of a new chapter for Henry’s Uptown Bar. He brought a fresh perspective while maintaining the core values of community and connection that his in-laws had established. Edward was a familiar face behind the bar, always ready with a story, a joke, or a listening ear.
During Edward’s era, the bar continued to thrive, even as it faced the challenges of changing times. The Prohibition era, economic downturns, and the ebb and flow of the city’s fortunes all tested the resilience of the establishment, but Edward’s dedication kept the bar’s doors open. His management style was hands-on and personal; he knew his patrons by name and made sure everyone who walked through the door felt like part of the Henry’s Uptown Bar family.
The Arrival of Henry Gogreve: A Bar Named for Its Heart
The most transformative period in the bar’s history began in 1946 when Edward’s daughter, Dorothy, and her husband, Henry Gogreve, took the helm. Henry, a larger-than-life figure with a quick wit and a warm smile, became the face of the bar and its namesake. Under Henry’s ownership, the IDN Poker bar’s reputation grew as a place where you could come as a stranger and leave as a friend.
Henry’s personality permeated every corner of the bar. He was more than just the owner; he was a host, storyteller, and confidant to countless regulars. Whether sharing a laugh over a pint or listening to a patron’s troubles, Henry made everyone feel like they were part of something special. The bar’s atmosphere took on a unique “Cheers”-like quality, where everybody knew your name and no one was ever truly alone.
A Legacy That Lives On: The Gogreve Family Today
Henry ran the bar with passion and commitment well into his late 80s, turning it into one of New Orleans’ most enduring establishments. When Henry passed away in 2010 at the age of 91, his legacy was firmly cemented in the history of the bar and the hearts of those who knew him. Today, Henry’s Uptown Bar remains in the hands of his and Dorothy’s children, who continue to honor the family’s tradition of service, hospitality, and community.
Now managed by the fourth generation, the bar still carries the spirit of its founders. The family’s dedication to preserving Henry’s vision has ensured that the bar remains a cherished institution in Uptown New Orleans. Each day, they work to keep the traditions alive, maintaining the welcoming atmosphere and close-knit community that have defined Henry’s Uptown Bar for over a century.
The Heartbeat of Uptown New Orleans
Stepping into Henry’s Uptown Bar today, you’ll find a place where the past and present collide. The bar’s historic charm is evident in every detail, from its vintage décor to the old photos that line the walls, capturing moments of laughter, celebration, and camaraderie. Patrons of all ages come to soak up the nostalgia and enjoy the sense of belonging that Henry’s has offered for generations.
Whether it’s the regulars who have been coming for decades or new faces discovering the bar for the first time, Henry’s Uptown Bar welcomes everyone with open arms. It’s a place where time seems to slow down, where stories flow as freely as the beer, and where every visit feels like coming home. The bar’s unique ability to blend history with a warm, inviting atmosphere makes it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the rich tapestry of New Orleans.
Cheers to Tradition: Raise a Glass to Henry’s Uptown Bar
In a city that never sleeps, Henry’s Uptown Bar is a reminder of the enduring power of community, family, and tradition. It’s a place where history is not just preserved but lived, where every drink is a toast to the generations that came before, and where the spirit of New Orleans shines brightest.
So next time you’re in the Crescent City, make your way to Henry’s Uptown Bar. Grab a cold beer, settle in, and experience the magic of a place that has been serving pints and creating memories since before you were born. Raise a glass to the Lees, the Crones, and the Gogreves, and celebrate the timeless legacy of one of New Orleans’ oldest and most beloved bars. Here’s to Henry’s Uptown Bar—a place where history, hospitality, and heart come together in every pour.
