Downing's Old Trail originally opened in 1933 under the name of Hobbs Tavern. The story goes that the Hobbs' operated under the title of a "Speak Easy" until the 21st amendment was ratified allowing the sale and distribution of alcohol following prohibition. In 1945, following Joe's duties in World War 2, Joe and Mary Downing purchased the tavern off of Mary's aunt and uncle Jack and Helen Hobbs. It wasn't until 1955 when the Downing's began offering a full menu of food to complement their bar business. If you've been to the Old Trail then you undoubtedly know what their biggest food item is.....Broasted Chicken of course. In 1963 Joe and Mary began serving up the Finest Chicken in the World after a couple of friends they knew from California continuously raved about how good Broasted