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Nestled along the scenic Tonawanda Creek in the rural Town of Pendleton, The Ship Bar & Grill stands where history and community converge. Our story dates back to the early 1800s when the Canal Commission chose this spot for the Erie Canal's journey from Albany to the Niagara River.
In 1839, Truman Carry purchased the land from the Holland Land Co., later selling it to Austin Simonds, who established a thriving canal store. This store became a hub for locals, offering goods brought in by boats and shipping out timber, farm produce, and furs. By 1870, the store transformed into a tavern, gaining popularity under various owners.
Significant changes came in 1905 with New York State's decision to enlarge the Erie Canal, shifting from horse and mule-drawn boats to tugboats. This expansion required moving the existing tavern. In 1917, Lawrence Trafert, a skilled local carpenter, built a new tavern, continuing the legacy.
The tavern's name and ownership evolved over the years, with Sylvester Pendleton Clark, the first innkeeper and namesake of the Town of Pendleton, welcoming guests arriving by horse and buggy. By the 1960s, our establishment earned the name Ship N’ Shore, reflecting its deep connection to the waterway.Today, The Ship Bar & Grill honors its rich heritage while offering a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Whether you're here to enjoy a meal, share a drink, or soak in the historical ambiance, we invite you to be part of our ongoing story.
