Fire Destroys Historic Tavern in Southwest Indiana

A weekend fire has destroyed a southwestern Indiana tavern that once served a 19th century stagecoach stop.

Saturday’s fire on Evansville’s west side reduced the Dutch Korner tavern to charred ruins. German Township Volunteer Fire Department Chief John M. Buckman III said the building was engulfed in flames when firefighters arrived and its roof soon collapsed.

He told the Evansville Courier & Press investigators believe the fire was accidental.

Buckman says the building was built in 1850 and was used over the years as a stagecoach stop, hotel, grocery and tavern. For the past 20 years, it’s been a popular destination for drinks, chicken and steaks.

The tavern’s owners say state law may prevent them from rebuilding at the same site because it’s within 1,000 feet of a nearby school.