Cork bar to go back in time

A historic city centre pub in Cork which has had the same name over its doors for over a century is stepping back in time to celebrate its 120th birthday.

The famed Canty’s Bar on Pembroke St, which opened in May 1892, claims to be the oldest pub in Cork that has maintained the same name.

Its owners have organised a series of themed events this month to mark the milestone.

The celebrations will kick off tomorrow when historian Michael Lenihan, author of Pure Cork, will chart the history of Pembroke St and launch an exhibition of artefacts and memorabilia associated with the bar.

Pembroke St was developed in 1730, before the South Mall was developed.

First named Five Alley Lane, the present name came from city’s sheriff Thomas Pembroke in 1724.

In 1867, the street was home to an hotel, spirit dealers, paper hanger, upholsterer, apothecary, posting establishments, and a dress-maker.

Then, in 1892, Daniel Canty put his name over the door of the pub, establishing 120 years of tradition.

The late Barry Buttimer, a former US Air Force pilot, bought the pub in 1978 and it has been in his family ever since.

Today, the pub is run by his son, Ger, who said: “We’re delighted to be celebrating the fact that we’re the oldest bar in Cork with the same name.

“I have fond memories of coming to this bar as a child. I grew up with the storytellers, friends and staff of this bar.

“I’m proud of the camaraderie of the businesses on Pembroke St, businesses that support each other on a daily basis.

“I want to thank the staff, friends and suppliers of Canty’s bar and I look forward to welcoming new and old faces to the bar over the coming weeks.”

On Thursday, guests will be treated to a night of music and stories from days gone by, and canapés created by Jacques Restaurant.

There will be a series of themed events this month, with a string of 1980s fancy dress reunion nights on May 18, 19, 25, and 26, aimed at the regulars who frequented the bar in the 1980s. There will be prizes for best costumes.

The exhibition of memorabilia will run in the bar from May 10 until the end of the month.

* The full programme of events is available on Facebook. Search for Canty’s Bar.