For over a century, the corner of 426-430 East Mitchell Street in Petoskey, Michigan, has been a cornerstone of the community. Today, it’s known as Mitchell Street Pub, a beloved local establishment with a history stretching back to the early 1900s. This location, now a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, has evolved through various iterations, each adding to its unique story.
Originally, this site was home to three separate buildings, each playing its part in the bustling life of Petoskey. In 1900, the address 426 Mitchell Street became home to John Karamol’s venture, the Posen Sample Company. Karamol sold cigars, fine wines, and liquor, laying the foundation for what would become a long-standing family-run saloon. For nearly 80 years, the Karamol family name became synonymous with this local watering hole, known simply as Karamol’s Bar, and at times, Karamol’s eatery.
The adjacent addresses at 428 and 430 Mitchell Street also saw a diverse range of businesses come and go, reflecting the changing needs and tastes of Petoskey residents. At 428, one could find a grocery store, a meat market, shoe repair shops, a barber shop, a coffee shop, the Baby Grand Restaurant, and the ever-popular Gus’s Coney Island. Meanwhile, 430 Mitchell Street housed its own array of businesses, including another meat market, Morgan’s Cigars and Barber Shop, flower shops, Fashion City, Arlene’s, CVS Drugs, Record World, and Trillium Salon. This variety of shops and services underscores the vital role these buildings played in the daily lives of Petoskey’s community members.
A significant change occurred around 1955 when the Knights of Columbus, who owned the original wooden structures, decided to modernize the site. They razed the old buildings and constructed the brick building that stands today, marking a new chapter in the location’s history.
In 1977, Jerry and Diane Ellman took over the Karamol’s legacy at 426 Mitchell Street. A year later, in 1978, they expanded their footprint by purchasing Gus’s Coney Island at 428. This acquisition led to the birth of the Mitchell Street Pub and Café, a fusion of the established Karamol’s bar and the popular Coney Island eatery. For 28 years, the Ellmans successfully operated “The Pub,” solidifying its place as a Petoskey institution.
The story of 426-430 Mitchell Street continued to evolve. In 1986, Larry and Elaine Rochon, owners of Record World at 430, expanded their business interests in the block. They leased and later purchased the 430 location from the Knights of Columbus, running their independent record store there for 26 years. Then, in 2005, the Rochons made a significant move, purchasing the Mitchell Street Pub and Café and the 426-428 locations from the Ellmans. This acquisition united the entire site under single ownership and ensured the continuation of the Mitchell Street Pub legacy.
Today, Mitchell Street Pub stands as a testament to Petoskey’s history and resilience. It is recognized as one of the longest surviving saloons in Petoskey and one of the oldest bars in Michigan, a remarkable achievement that speaks to its enduring appeal. Its historical significance is further acknowledged by its listing on the National Register of Historical Places. Mitchell Street Pub is more than just a place to grab a drink; it’s a living piece of Petoskey’s past, a place where history and community continue to meet.
