Trader Ed’s was a unique saloon located on Hyman Avenue in the building next to the “Blue Drug.”  Over the years this location was home to many restaurants and bars, among them were Tico’s and Toro’s.  The lower level had a history of its own as Alice’s Alley, The Woodlander and eventually “The Slope.”

Trader Ed’s was owned by Ed Brennan, a long time Aspenite who was known for such endeavors as a Flower Guide, Hotelier and an accomplished saloon owner.  I had the pleasure of going to school with Ed’s daughter, Mary, although we were never close friends.

During the years of Trader Ed’s many great things happened in the old establishment, some of which are still talked about at every “old timers” gatherings.  As this story goes, my father, Neil Beck ran into Earl Hose’ and they decided to go have a couple of beers.  They chose to go hang out at Trader Ed’s.  When they arrived they found the bar dark but the door was unlocked.  They headed in and made themselves at home.

Much to their surprise, as they were filing their beers they found a “stack of cash” sitting on the bar.  As the guests had before them, they paid for their drinks and sat down to enjoy them.  Not long after that, they heard someone fumbling for his keys as Ed walked in.

“Hmmm, I must have forgot to lock up” Ed announced with a bit of surprise to see Neil and Paul sitting there.  As he approached the bar he commented, “Looks like business was good,” as he picked up the pile of cash sitting there.

Many stories of Ed and his antics still exist today, all of them in good fun or complimentary to him and his legacy.  Ed had experienced many trials and tribulations over the years; but, he is remembered fondly by the people who got to know him and called him “friend.”