[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 97 (Tuesday, June 7, 2022)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E584]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      RECOGNIZING THE 140TH ANNIVERSARY OF SLEDER'S FAMILY TAVERN

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                           HON. JACK BERGMAN

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 7, 2022

  Mr. BERGMAN. Madam Speaker, it is my honor to recognize the 140th 
Anniversary of Sleder's Family Tavern of Traverse City, Michigan. 
Through almost a century and a half of service and steadfast devotion 
to their community, Sleder's Family Tavern has become a local landmark 
and an indispensable part of Michigan's First District.
  Established in 1882, Sleder's Family Tavern's continuous dedication 
to the local community has landed the business the title of the oldest 
active restaurant in Michigan. The tavern was started by local 
wheelwright, Vencil Sleder, who came to the United States as a Bohemian 
immigrant and built the tavern with the help of his fellow neighbors. 
The original construction of the tavern was made up of wooden slabs 
from sawmills and took approximately three years to build since many of 
the builders were only available on weekends.
  Sleder's Family Tavern was owned and operated by the Sleder family 
for three generations, until it was sold to Bob and Sylvia Classens 
around the business's 100th anniversary in 1975. The Tavern was then 
sold to Deb and Brian Cairns in May 1992, who eventually transferred 
ownership to their son and daughter-in-law, Ryan and Megan Cox, on 
December 31, 2019. Throughout the years, the business has only had 
minor renovations and additions, and much of the original building has 
been preserved with the help of the community. Today, the Sleder's 
Family Tavern is located in the heart of downtown Traverse City, and 
continues to serve locals for their food and beverage needs.
  Madam Speaker, it's my honor to recognize Sleder's Family Tavern for 
nearly a century and a half of success and service to Northern 
Michigan. Michiganders can take great pride in knowing the First 
District is home to such dedicated citizens. On behalf of my 
constituents, I wish them all the best in their future endeavors.

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