In 1907, the Mint Bar opened for business in the heart of downtown Sheridan. At that time, ice was delivered in horse-drawn wagons to the bar's ice box and bartenders wore long white aprons, serving drinks across a mahogany bar. Unfortunately, this scene was short-lived with the enactment of Prohibition in 1919 but a "speakeasy" was quietly operated in the bar's back room for those who disagreed with Congress' latest amendment.
Upon Prohibition's repeal in 1933, the Mint Bar reopened. An addition was built on the back of the building to make room for slot machines, roulette wheels and gaming tables, accommodating the thriving gambling clientele in the back room and newly legal drinkers in the front.
Known for years as the gathering place for cowboys, ranchers and dudes to tip a cold one and socialize, the Mint was completely redecorated in the late 40's in the rustic style seen today. Knotty pine paneling and gnarled pine burls make up the back bar and thousands of cedar shingles line the walls with local brands. The booths are also cedar. Much of the wild game in the bar was a result of one of the owners' trip to the Yukon in the 50's. The remainder, including the deer, antelope and elk, came from the Sheridan area.
