Is Shiels Tavern the oldest bar in Michigan?

Shiels Tavern holds the distinction of being Michigan's oldest continuously licensed bar under the same name. The building dates to 1878, and the tavern has maintained a continuous liquor license since 1933 — the year Michigan began its modern licensing system after Prohibition. While other Michigan bars may claim older buildings, Shiels Tavern's unbroken licensing record under the same family name is what sets it apart. The original bar and back bar are still in use today.