Hennessey’s Bar

From the Album Living In A Rich Man’s World

I work every day at the paper mill
I come to this bar when I’ve got time to kill
Don’t want to go home to my wife
She charges too high of a price
Jukebox playing Wabash Cannonball
Can sure hear that lonesome whistle call
Would like to go for a ride
But getting to be so cold outside

Lagging nickels up against the wall.
Watching them bounce so high, watching each other fall.
Not caring who’s going to win.
Feeling like a bunch of kids.
Free round of beer for the gang.
You are my sunshine, and everybody sang
Just another night at Hennessey’s
Ain’t no other place I’d rather be

Bill’s in the corner with his girlfriend.
Whenever I talk to Bill his eyes are usually hid.
Ain’t nothing wrong with that.
Sure beats trying to pass the hat.
Jack he’s the owner of the bar.
Drives an old white Cadillac.
He looks like a country western star.
Always good for a laugh.
Wish you could see Jack when he starts to dance.

I’m shooting pool without an eight ball.
Just shot the cue ball in the pocket and I’m trying to stall.
‘Cause it’s my turn to pay.
I just can’t afford the change.
I guess it’s nearing closing time.
Just enough time left to drop me one more dime.
Then I best be on my way.
See you all again next pay day.
Wish you a Merry Christmas
and hope everybody’s having a good holiday.

Words & music by Larry Long
Copyright Larry Long 1981; Renewed 2025 / BMI

*Hennessey’s was a 3.2 bar, which barely stayed open until it couldn’t any longer. It was located on a main street of downtown Sauk Rapids, Minnesota where Highway 10 used to run. Hennessey’s patrons were mainly people who worked at the paper mill or for the optical firms in the area. We’d play there often for beers, tips and the stories the regulars would tell.

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