NEW BRAUNFELS, Texas -- When Prohibition was repealed in 1933, 17-year-old J.C. Riley became the first Texan to get a liquor license. Eighty-five years later, Riley's Tavern is still keeping the history alive in Comal County.

  • Riley's Tavern first Texas establishment to get liquor license following repeal of Prohibition 
  • J.C. Riley ran the tavern until his death in 1992
  • The tavern is celebrating its 85th anniversary with a party 

Since 2004, Joel and Angie Hofmann have been the proud owners of the bar.

"His parents used to bring him out here for live music a lot and actually we dated when he was in high school and we came out here one time and saw a band which was pretty cool. And then 10 years later he bought the bar," Angie Hofmann said.

J.C. Riley ran the bar up until his death in 1992. The Hofmanns say it's important to maintain the bar's historical atmosphere - keeping the same seating, windows, and even the same paint color.

"When I come by, I know what's going to be here and I know it's going to be hopefully the way Riley would've had it if he could've continued all these years," Joel Hofmann said.

The bar has live music every night, giving local musicians a place to play, and regulars a place to socialize.

"Without having a balance of both, I don't think it would work. I think we need the loyal regulars plus we need what live music can bring to us and keeping up with the good vibe is number one," Joel Hoffmann said.

The Hofmanns say as long as they're the owners, the music and vibe will stay just how Riley intended, free of the "hip" culture and music.

"Nothing wrong with that, but that's not this place," Angie Hofmann said.

Riley's Tavern received a Texas Historical Marker a few years ago,​ and received a designation in the National Register of Historic Places earlier this year. Comal County Commissioner's Court held a proclamation Thursday to announce the bar's recognition.

The bar is also holding an 85th Anniversary Party this Saturday. Proceeds from this event with go to Texas Dancehall Preservation Society. The event is free but there is a suggested donation of $5 - $10.