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c.1890. From left to right: barber Jim Vincent; Constable Ernest Wilkins; contractor Billy Brusso; Al Olander; and Joe Sullivan, an 8' 2" tall fireman. 4

Olander's Saloon was a saloon in Brooklyn at 1247 East 12th Street, built in 1894, run by Albert Olander. Many details inside are still intact, though numerous pieces of decor have been added over the years.

May 13, 1895 TribuneThe building was constructed in 1894 by A. W. Cornelius and designed by architect John Conant. Olander opened the saloon in 1895. The Oakland Tribune described the interior as "a work of art" and it featured a large oak bar with birdseye maple veneer. 2

Olander sounds like something of a character. In 1903, he wagered with his barber, Daniel King, that he could swim across the estuary. If Olander failed, King would get the saloon; if he succeeded, Olander would get the barbershop. The selected location was about 1.25 miles, and on May 10, 1903 before a crowd of 700 people, Olander succeeded and won the barbershop. 1 c.1900, Olander managed two amateur baseball teams. the A. Olander Juniors and Seniors who won their respective championships that year.

Olander died February 15, 1913, leaving his wife Mary a widow; 5 Robert A. Mullholland managed the saloon. Albert and Mary are buried in Saint Mary's Cemetery.

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Links and References

  1. Olander Swam Across the Estuary Oakland Tribune May 11, 1903
  2. A. Olander Has Opened a Charming Sample Room Oakland Tribune May 13, 1895
  3. In the Field of Sport Oakland Tribune September 5, 1900
  4. ohrphoto.districts.131 Oakland History Center, Oakland Public Library
  5. Albert Olander Called by Death Oakland Tribune February 16, 1913

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