Archie’s
Archie’s was located at 1022 Excelsior Ave. (now Mainstreet), Hopkins.
The building goes back to 1930, and in October 1937 it was Gluek’s Corner, a place to get Wrigley’s Gum.
ARCHIE’S
Archie was Archie Normandin, and his bar went back to at least 1951. In 1971 you could dance to your old time and new favorites to Chris Kober and His Orchestra. Also Country and Western by the Big River Ramblers.
Archies, 1956, Courtesy Hopkins Historical Society
Inside of Archie’s, 1958 – Minnesota Historical Society
Another view of Archie’s, @ 1960 – Hopkins Historical Society
On November 18, 1977, the Minneapolis Star did a survey of Country bars around town, and included Archie’s. The bar was called a comfortable, relaxing spot with two levels and adequate seating. The Country decor was deemed a bit “contrived.” The dance floor is slightly elevated and gets crowded when the band is playing. Patrons are clean-cut business and factory workers from the area. There was live entertainment every other night.
Archie’s prevailed until at least May 2000.
DECOY’S
In January 2001, wantads appeared for staff for a new place called Decoys, which apparently opened in October 2001. Decoy’s offered live music and existed until at least December 2008.
THE WILD BOAR
Archie’s is the Wild Boar in 2016