Welcome to the Chadwick, fabric of Burley history since 1918. Although the furnishings are new, the handsome brick walls, burnished wooden floors and stained glass windows stand as they were placed nearly a century ago by builder, Charles F. Chadwick. Designed to be a “Gentlemen’s Club,” the building was owned by John Ospital, a Basque Sheepherder who later partnered with Martin Yrusta.

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Martin had also come from Basque country to herd sheep but had contracted spotted fever, fell critically ill and could no longer work the sheep. At that point his friend John said, “Let’s form partners in Elite Billiards,” and the pact was formed.

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Elite Billiards soon became one of the nicest places in town and men gathered to play cards, shoot pool, have a drink and relax. Adding to the amenities was the club’s proximity to three respectable houses of prostitution. Quite fortuitous.

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The Chadwick’s upper story also has history. Originally it was occupied by Dr. Kettenring’s sanitarium, a facility which specialized in electro-physical therapy. Upon closure of the sanitarium, John, Martin, and Peter Acuiturri remodeled the upstairs turning the front into an apartment and creating a nightclub and dance hall in the back. Entertainment was good and patrons swarmed in.

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Later years the lower back half of the Chadwick converted into Ike Lee’s upholstery business and, later still, the site of Vanek’s Shoe Repair. When John and Martin could no longer run the building, it was purchased by Ken Tilley who continued to run a respectable hospitality business which his son, Marvin, carried on. With Marvin’s death in 1998, an unfortunate lease of the Chadwick Building led to its demise.

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Now, friends you are experiencing the resurrection of the Chadwick. Once again these walls will witness laughter, friendships and relaxation; and if, in the later hours of the evening, you should chance to see an ephemeral lady clad in red wafting amongst the tables, smile quietly and welcome her back home.                                                                           
                                                                         — Written by, Jeannie