Brass Rail Tavern
The year was 1933 and it was the end of prohibition—Brass Rail Tavern was open for business. Claiming to be the “oldest bar in town,” Brass Rail Tavern is located in Oakland at 401 NE Emmett Street. Owner Emil Spaeth is thrilled they’re still around. During the pandemic, there were thoughts of selling the bar, and indeed, it was even on the market for a short time. But Emil is glad it didn’t sell.
Emil wrote on Facebook before reopening, “Damn, I’ve missed you! So has the returning staff! Take care of them please. They’ve been hurting even more than me, and I’ve been hurting even more for them.”
Emil says the neighborhood customers at the Rail are some of the best people in Topeka. “And the customers that stopped by from around the world are just as beautiful. The original Brunswick front and back bar are over 100 years old. When you sit at that bar you realize just how many people and conversations were had there. I wish it could talk.”
Brass Rail is blanketed in memorabilia and tributes to fallen friends. A beautiful handmade table is engraved with names of those who have passed. It’s definitely a place to celebrate anything and everything. With karaoke, live music, breakfast, table games, darts and various competitions, it is a “come as you are everyday” kind of place.
I ran into a few regulars on my recent visit: “Tony with a Y—no last name, like Cher,” John Bond Jr. and “King Edward Chary—King of Karaoke.” They all say being back in the bar feels like coming home.
Frequent “Railer” John Bond says he missed more than just the food and drinks last year. “When it was closed it was like not being able to go to grandma’s house,” he said.
They’ve never seen a fist fight, and if there is an argument, it’s likely someone that doesn’t normally frequent the place. Brass Rail Tavern does have a particular vibe about it—do as you please as long as you’re not hurting anyone else.
