This Iconic Saloon In Maryland Was Inspired By A Famous Ghost Dog

Port Tobacco, Maryland, might just be one of the smallest towns you’ll ever encounter; as of the 2020 census, it boasts a population of just 18. But, while undoubtedly small, this town - or perhaps more accurately, this village - also lays claim to one of the oldest ghost stories in the United States. This story about an ill-fated sailor and his loyal dog companion inspired the name of The Blue Dog Restaurant and Saloon, where a haunting story and some incredible meal offerings come together for a one-of-a-kind experience!

According to the legend, an American soldier returning from the Revolutionary War stopped into a tavern in Port Tobacco for a drink. A man named Henry Hanos overheard the soldier bragging about having a hefty sum of gold and the deed to a large estate, and followed the soldier and his dog out of the pub.

Hanos waylaid the soldier and his companion on the road and murdered them both, but buried the gold and the deed beneath a holly tree. He intended to return and collect it later, but when he tried, he was confronted by a huge, ghostly blue dog.

The dog scared Hanos so badly that he never returned for his prize. He passed away a few days later, but the ghostly dog is said to stand guard over his master’s grave to this day.

The saloon, located just a short way from the spectral haunt of the dog, offers a constant rotation of special menu items, as well as Southern Maryland staples for a down-home feeling that never gets old.

A delicious and fresh raw oyster bar keeps the maritime heritage of the area alive and thriving! It can’t be beat on a summer afternoon.

Legend has it that the ghost of the blue dog can still be heard howling on cool evenings, so be sure to listen out for it as you enjoy your meal on the patio!

If you’re as thrilled as we are about the possibility of bumping into a ghost during your meal, be sure to check out this other famously haunted eatery in Maryland!