CLARKSVILLE, TN (CLARKSVILLE) – Nearly one year after a fire shut down Blackhorse Pub & Brewery downtown, owner Jeff Robinson is looking forward to celebrating his businesses’ 30th anniversary with a revitalized restaurant.
On March 3, 2021, Blackhorse Pub & Brewery suffered a kitchen fire that required Clarksville Fire Rescue to cut holes in the roof and fill the pub with water. Robinson said he remembers seeing water run down the stairs from the taproom “like whitewater rapids.” Blackhorse has been closed for repairs ever since.
Now, Robinson says, the Blackhorse is nearing reopening, and he hopes to welcome customers back next month.
“Right now, I just want to beat our anniversary. Our anniversary is March 17, 1992. Our sole objective is to get open in time to beat that anniversary,” Robinson told Clarksville Now during a tour of the site Thursday morning.
What’s changed?
While most of the changes to the building are mechanical (HVAC, electrical, plumbing, etc.), Blackhorse will be getting a few noticeable upgrades.
One of the first things returning guests might notice is the taproom’s ceilings. Instead of the original ceiling, wood paneling has been added directly beneath the rooftop, allowing the bar to have a new, open-air atmosphere.
The kitchen will be getting an equipment upgrade, which Robinson said should allow for faster, more efficient turnaround. New furniture and seating are also on the way.
The building’s exterior will be getting a facelift. Thanks to a photo located by historian Randy Rubel, the Robinsons are restoring the facade of 134 Franklin St., the brewery side, to resemble its appearance in the 1920s. Robinson said brick for the facade should be arriving Thursday, and scaffolding could come down within a week or two.
Just as important as what’s changing is what will remain the same. Robinson said the original, vintage bar back will return to the downstairs dining room, and the upstairs pool room will be returning as well.
Hiring process underway
While Jeff Robinson oversees Blackhorse’s restoration, his wife, co-owner Sherri Robinson, is in the process of hiring a new staff. Robinson said they hope to have approximately 115 people hired by opening day.
Many previous employees will be returning. Robinson said all the management staff and a large number of bartenders will be back.
When all is said and done, Robinson said he looks forward to being able to take a break.
“It’s been a really long year. It is my plan at the end of this year to take a break, it will be (nice to take a break),” Robinson said. “In a way, we’re just now getting to the hard part. The hiring and opening of the restaurant will be a whole different stress on top of the construction part of it.”
Blackhorse Pub & Brewery is at 132 Franklin St. For more, go to the Blackhorse website.
