From Texas Public Radio:
If you’ve spent any time in Port Aransas on the Texas coast, you’re probably familiar with Shorty’s Place. The iconic bar was opened in 1946.
But redevelopment in the area posed a threat to its future. So, current owner Edwin Myers has taken the bold step to physically move the building five blocks away to keep it from being wiped out of existence.
TPR’s Jerry Clayton spoke with Myers about the decision to move and also about the legacy of Shorty’s Place.
This interview has been edited and condensed for time and clarity.
Jerry Clayton: Where is Shorty’s Place being moved to?
Edwin Myers: We’re moving to 101 Beach Street, right on the main drag, the corner of Hollister and Beach.
What would have happened had you not decided to move the building?
Well, no telling. Somebody else would have taken it over because I had a lease that was through the end of the year, and I was not given anything after that. We were on three year leases, and nothing was guaranteed beyond that.
When I was approached with an opportunity about eight months ago to move Shorty’s to a place where I could have a long term lease, and I felt that was the best opportunity. If I waited around and didn’t get a lease extension, then no telling what happens to Shorty’s.
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Is there a development that’s pushing those older buildings out of that area currently?
The others were offered an extension on their lease, and at the end of their lease they were offered time on their lease. I would expect that at some point it will be redeveloped. Part of it has already been redeveloped.
You’ve obviously spent a lot of money to save this landmark. Do you think it’s going to be worth it?
You know, I haven’t gotten to that point yet. I just know what I’m supposed to do. And what I’m supposed to do is be a good caretaker. Who knows? I might not own Shorty’s for the longest time, but I would like to think that I owned it for the right time.