MOLINE -
Generations have gathered at Hafner's for a cold beer and sandwich, but it's owners Monday confirmed the Moline landmark is up for sale.
''It's for sale because I'm getting old, I'm going to be 65 years old'', said co-owner Bob Hafner.
It's been in the Hafner family since the end of prohibition, at the location on Avenue of the Cities since 1951. Bob and his brother-in-law took it over in 1978, and admits it hasn't changed much since.
''You see people who have been gone 20, 25 years, and they say your hair is grayer, but the place hasn't changed, and I say I know'', Hafner said.
It will be an end of an era, and customers were stunned. Waitress Sherry DeShane has waited tables at Hafners for 27 years. ''You're hoping you're going to keep your job. You know what the customers eat, drink, and think. It's sad''.
Hafner and his brother-in-law Kelly run a tight ship. Male bartenders must wear a tie. Customers have been banned for swearing. An old school joint with rules.
But Hafner says he already has three different parties interested in the place, and it may not change all that much. He hopes he's retired by the end of January.
''I'm tired. I've had enough fun. 40 years. That's enough.
''It's for sale because I'm getting old, I'm going to be 65 years old'', said co-owner Bob Hafner.
It's been in the Hafner family since the end of prohibition, at the location on Avenue of the Cities since 1951. Bob and his brother-in-law took it over in 1978, and admits it hasn't changed much since.
''You see people who have been gone 20, 25 years, and they say your hair is grayer, but the place hasn't changed, and I say I know'', Hafner said.
It will be an end of an era, and customers were stunned. Waitress Sherry DeShane has waited tables at Hafners for 27 years. ''You're hoping you're going to keep your job. You know what the customers eat, drink, and think. It's sad''.
Hafner and his brother-in-law Kelly run a tight ship. Male bartenders must wear a tie. Customers have been banned for swearing. An old school joint with rules.
But Hafner says he already has three different parties interested in the place, and it may not change all that much. He hopes he's retired by the end of January.
''I'm tired. I've had enough fun. 40 years. That's enough.
