Bridging History with Flavor | The Viaduct Bar & Grill
The Viaduct Bar & Grill stands as a beacon of history as the oldest bar in Tiffin and as a culinary excellence throughout the Seneca County community and beyond.
The Viaduct Bar & Grill holds a special place in the heart of Tiffin and is located at 84 North Washington Street. The historic building still serves as a gathering spot for locals, offering respite from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Over the decades, it has witnessed the ebb and flow of time, evolving to reflect the changing tastes and preferences of customers. One of the most notable aspects of The Viaduct Bar & Grill is its location beneath the famous North Washington Street, Tiffin Viaduct, a testament to engineering marvel and a nod to the town’s industrial past.
The history of the building is stronger than the Tiffin Viaduct that currently holds an undefeated 47-0 record in the last five years. Lee Luzader and Gary Taylor purchased the business and property in May 2010, formerly known as Murrary’s Refinery, M&R Bar, Bricks Saloon, and a host of other names.
When you step inside The Viaduct Bar & Grill, you’re greeted with an atmosphere that seamlessly blends nostalgia with modernity. The interior pays homage to its heritage, with vintage décor elements and photographs adorning the walls, offering glimpses into the past. However, it’s not just the ambiance that captivates visitors; it’s the promise of delicious food, cold drinks, and memories waiting to be made.
From their standard menu to their weekly specials, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Don’t forget about their selection of craft beers and signature cocktails, the perfect accompaniment to any meal. Whether you’re craving a casual lunch with friends, a romantic dinner for two, or a leisurely brunch on the weekends, this establishment has you covered. Additionally, they regularly host events such as live music nights, trivia contests, and themed parties, ensuring there’s always something exciting happening at The Viaduct.
Moreover, The Viaduct Bar & Grille prides itself on its commitment to community involvement, often partnering with local organizations and charities to give back to the town that has embraced them for generations. Through their philanthropic efforts, they not only nourish bodies but also spirits, fostering a sense of unity and camaraderie among residents.
The Viaduct Bar & Grill is more than just a restaurant; it’s a cultural landmark, a culinary destination, and a testament to the enduring spirit of Tiffin. So, whether you’re a lifelong resident or just passing through, be sure to stop by and savor a taste of history at this beloved establishment. Your taste buds will thank you, and your heart will long to return to its welcoming embrace. Keep up to date with everything The Viaduct Bar & Grill has to offer by following them on Facebook.
Today, the Iron Triangle boasts a 360-degree view of the 100+ trains that still pass through Fostoria, now operated by the CSX and Norfolk Southern rail companies. There is also a viewing shelter and multiple picnic areas, which are maintained by the Fostoria Rail Preservation Society. Railroad fans will also be eager to visit many of the historic depots and buildings that stand as a testament to Fostoria’s long rail-centric history. Learn more about The Iron Triangle & Rail Park at 
With the decline of the interurban railroad in the 1920’s, the ownership of the park passed to Mr. James Garfield Haugh, who had purchased the buildings and land from Henry Matthews, one of Bascom’s earliest residents. Matthews had erected a lumber and milling business on Wolf Creek with a $350 loan. He is credited with having the first circular saw mill in this section of the country. The Matthews family established Matthews Boat Company and later moved the company to Port Clinton. Mr. Haugh established a wood working factory that manufactured many household products made of wood. Shortly after Mr. Haugh took possession of the property, the dance hall burned to the ground.
The Crystal Pool, was completed in 1929 at a cost of $40,000 and at 180 feet in length and 60 feet wide was the first and largest public pool in the region. The pool boasted the fact that it recirculated the water at the rate of 32,000 gallons per hour. The pool was well constructed and was used with only minor maintenance for 50 years before major renovations were needed. The pool was replaced by a major renovation effort in 1980. Under the direction of Park Manager, Wayne Hoover, a federal outdoor recreation matching grant was obtained and a new stainless steel pool was built in the same site. The cost of replacing the pool was $214,000 of which half was raised by the local Bascom community. Recently a new slide was added for children to enjoy.
The building has served many purposes since its construction. It was home to the Republic Village Council and housed police headquarters at different times. It has been a meeting place for local groups and fraternal organizations. It also hosted many dances, balls and banquet dinners. The Hall was the focal point for entertainment including theater performances, musical acts and all kinds of variety shows held in the second floor opera house theater. At different times a Jail or “calaboose”, as it was referred to in an early newspaper article, was part of the property as well as the town fire bell and eventually the community warning siren. The Republic Town Hall & Opera House was even used as a makeshift school throughout the years. At times when the existing educational facility of the day was being renovated or rebuilt, as in 1913, classes were held inside The Hall. School related events would continue to held in The Hall well into the 1950’s. In 1887 the B&O railroad had one of their first and most deadly trainwrecks which occurred on the western edge of Republic. Funeral proceedings for the unidentified victims took place at the Town Hall.
Opening Guide Staff-1933 | Left to Right: Walter Baughman, Irvin Peltier, Harold Page
While the lives of many occupants of the infirmary buried here remain a mystery, we do know about a few of them. One, Silas Barber, died at 60 years of age in 1887. His place of birth is uncertain, but many believed he had come from Canada by boat. People remembered seeing him wandering throughout Seneca and the surrounding counties. He was never known to have held a steady job, and it is uncertain how he survived. Yet, Silas was a familiar face to many rural residents. It seems he was obsessed with thistles. Many came across him hard at work cutting through patches of thistles with a scythe for area farmers. And, according to their accounts, Silas refused compensation for any of his labors.
An outdoor chapel called the Pieta Chapel was built and dedicated in 1968 to accommodate the growing number of pilgrims, especially from many parts of Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania and Ontario, Canada. With over 120,000 visitors a year from different ethnicities, the Shrine offers designated Sundays during the summer months such as Slovenian Sunday, Philippine Sunday, African – American Sunday and more. These days celebrate each’s rich Catholic culture and tradition. 
This Shrine that Fr. Brunner began in Seneca County is one of the oldest Marian Shrines in the Midwest and it is still owned and operated by the Congregation of the Precious Blood. Next year (2025), the Sorrowful Mother Shrine will be celebrating its 175th Anniversary. Learn more 
Renamed as All Saints Parish in 2005, the parish has merged with the former parishes of St. Nicholas (Berwick/Frenchtown), Ss. Peter and Paul (Alvada), St. Andrew (Liberty Township), St. Patrick (Bascom), and St. James (Kansas). The churches of the former parishes have all been demolished. The St. Boniface church built in 1875 is the only one that survives.
Nettie and Florence both attended public schools and then Heidelberg University. Apparently due to an eye issue, Nettie only went to school there for a year, but Florence graduated at the top of her class in 1865. At that time, Heidelberg frowned on a woman speaking at the graduation ceremony, so she did not receive the honor of speaking as the valedictorian. However, Florence returned to Heidelberg and earned her MA in education in 1869. While Florence was receiving her education at Heidelberg, Nettie moved to Illinois to attend the State Normal School. This was a training school offering certification to high school graduates preparing to be elementary teachers. Nettie would also learn how to understand and communicate with the deaf.
Nettie Cronise Lutes
Florence Cronise
In 1842, Bennitt provided land for the Omar Chapel and Cemetery. The chapel, which is in the Greek Revival style, was completed the following year. At that time, it was known as the Second Regular Baptist Church of Reed County. A tornado did serious damage to the roof in 1953, but the repairs were made, and the building was saved. Today the church is maintained by dedicated volunteers.
Wilson made a deal with the Toledo Medical College to deliver a body, Miss Bowen’s, in return for cancelling his outstanding tuition. One night a short time later, Wilson and several friends visited the Omar Cemetery, retrieved Miss Bowen’s body, and then closed the empty coffin and refilled the grave to cover their crime. He decided to forward the body to Toledo by train in a trunk. Unfortunately for Wilson, the plot was discovered when the trunk arrived at the Toledo station. The body was returned and reinterred at the Omar Cemetery. Wilson was arrested, convicted, and spent a brief time in prison. Upon his release, he returned to school and completed his degree. He eventually became a popular member of the community and a highly respected physician, dying at the bedside of one of his patients.
