History

In 1907, the J.H. Traynor & Co business was officially established with the aim of engaging in liquor sales in Versailles, Kentucky. However, the company did not remain in Versailles for long if at all. Shortly after its inception, the business relocated to South Bend, Indiana. Yet, its journey was not over; by 1908, the enterprise made its way back to Lexington, Kentucky, where it was known as The Barrel House of JH Traynor. This initial name was short-lived, as by 1912, the company adopted the name J.H. Traynor & Co Wholesale Liquor Dealers, and located at 105 North Broadway.

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Interestingly, historical evidence suggests that J.H. Traynor & Co might have been operational even before 1907. Advertisements uncovered from 1906 indicate that the business was active in Nicholasville, Kentucky, where it was known as The New Barrel House, located adjacent to the Spears & Lyons
stable. This earlier operation adds a layer of intrigue to the company's history, hinting at a possibly more established presence prior to the 1907 formation.

 

The Lexington location of J.H. Traynor & Co was strategically chosen. Situated three doors down from the bustling Main Street on North Broadway, which was one of the most prominent streets in the city at the time, the location offered significant visibility. The building was positioned on the west side of North Broadway, providing a clear view of traffic coming from the east
along Main Street. Additionally, the establishment was conveniently located just three blocks away from the county courthouse, enhancing its accessibility and prominence.

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The business's early days included a partnership with W.G. Moseley, which commenced in 1907. Unfortunately, this partnership faced a turbulent end. In 1912, a dispute led to a lawsuit filed by W.G. Moseley against John Traynor. At the time of the legal proceedings, the partnership's assets were outlined as follows: $1,500 in cash held at the Union Bank & Trust Company, merchandise valued at $500, furniture and fixtures worth $100, and open accounts totaling $300. There was also an outstanding debit balance of $100 with the bank, which needed to be addressed.

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The J.H. Traynor & Co business continued its operations at 105 North Broadway in Lexington, Kentucky, until approximately 1919. This period of business activity was abruptly halted due to the enactment of Prohibition legislation, which had a profound impact on the liquor industry across the United States.

 

On January 16, 1919, the 18th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution was ratified, marking a pivotal moment in American history. This amendment, which aimed to prohibit the manufacture, sale, and transportation of alcoholic beverages, was set to take effect one year later, on January 16, 1920. The
sweeping changes brought by this legislation necessitated the closure of many establishments engaged in the liquor trade.

 

In response to the forthcoming Prohibition, Congress enacted the National Prohibition Act in October 1919. Commonly known as the Volstead Act, named after Representative Andrew Volstead of Minnesota, who chaired the House Judiciary Committee, this piece of legislation established the plan for enforcement.