The Knickerbocker Tavern

The Pennsylvania Railroad's (PRR) construction of the South Altoona shops in 1903 was the catalyst that spurred development of this area.AIand developer optioned to build a Philadelphia-style row house complex that was named “the Knidrerbodcer." after its construction company. Now home to the Kniokerbodrer Tavern. this building was originally designed as a hotel and intended primarily for individuals passing through the area, as well as forworkers at the South Altoona Foundry of the PRR. While until 1945 the buildings were all tenant-occupied. today the vast majority of the Knickerbodter properties are owner-occupied. Throughout the 194os. this exact location was home to the Trod Bros. store and a soda fountain. Trod Bros. essentially contained along marble top counter. bladr wrought iron soda chairs. and glass containers used forthe sale of candy. The store also carried kerosene forthe many stoves that were prevalent in the Knidrerbodrer properties at the time. In the early 195os. the soda fountain was turned into a bar. the Variety Room. owned and operated by John and Isabella Turchetta. Unfortunately. due to the failing health of the Turchettas. the Variety Room was closed in December 1990. On February 21. 1996. the barwas re-opened under new ownership. Terry and Lillan Reed. and a new name-the Kniolcerbodrer Tavern. Today. the tavern is home to a friendly. cozy atmosphere offering great food and the areas largest selection of craft brewed and imported beer.