Taxidermy Bar

Because tastes in such matters vary widely you'll find different "themes" in saloons, taverns, pubs and like establishments.  Biker bars.  Sports bars.  Gay bars.  It's all very egalitarian.

One interesting subvariant here in Wisconsin is the Taxidermy Bar.  And reigning supreme among them is The Moccasin Bar in Hayward.

A bit dowdy on the outside but don't be deterred.  Inside....well, it was something I simply had to show our visitor from England.

It looks to have had a tidy up and remodel since the last time I was there.  So on the surface it's now just your average Wisconsin bar.

But all around the walls....

Stuffed critters acting out various dramas.  Here's a dishonest poker game.

Tipsy ground squirrels belting out "Sweet Adeline".  I'm guessing some patrons confuse it with "Sweet Caroline" and expect the little rodents to add on "Bup, bup, Bah!"

A Kangaroo Court, sadly lacking kangaroos.

Although the implication is that he was framed, the Badger does look pretty guilty....

A boxing match.

There are also many large stuffed fish including what was once the World Record Muskie.  This status was always considered controversial so perhaps it is best that another and larger fish took the crown.

Ah well.  A chance to show our guest - yes, that's her up above - something she won't see in New York or LA.  Shockingly the Moccasin, cultural treasure that it is, is not listed on the National Register of Historic Places.  Maybe somebody should do something about that?