Roark's Tavern
Legendary Roark’s Tavern on Landfield Avenue in the village of Monticello first opened its doors in 1932 during the height of the Great Depression.
William “Bill” Roark (1892-1947), a Monticello native, started the tavern. He was the son of Michael Roark (1845-1925), a well-respected farmer, and Bridget Carroll Roark (1857-1929). He attended the Monticello schools and was a star basketball and baseball player. Prior to the tavern he had worked at a bakery and at the Monticello Inn. William was active in the community, being a member of the Knights of Columbus, the Elks and president of the Monticello soft ball league. William passed away at the age of 54 in 1947 at the Hamilton Avenue Hospital. Services were held at Saint Peter’s Church and he is buried at Saint Peter’s Cemetery in Monticello, New York.
