Reilly’s Daughter, a staple of the South Side Irish community, recently marked its 50th anniversary in Oak Lawn. The tavern, located at 4010 W. 111th St., has been a hub for locals and celebrities alike since its opening in 1976.

A Family Legacy

James ‘Boz’ O’Brien founded Reilly’s Daughter, which was named after an Irish folk song. The bar quickly gained popularity, with notable patrons including Chicago Bears quarterback Jim McMahon and former Notre Dame coach Lou Holtz. After O’Brien sold the bar in 2002, it went through various incarnations before his son Brendan repurchased it in 2015.

Brendan O’Brien, now 43, has many fond memories of the bar, where he spent his childhood doing homework and helping out. He recalls the bar’s lively atmosphere, particularly during St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, when patrons would gather to hear Terry McEldowney sing ‘South Side Irish.’ The bar has also been a staple for local events and fundraisers, including sponsoring softball teams and hosting parties on rented ‘L’ train cars.

A Community Institution

Reilly’s Daughter has become an integral part of the Oak Lawn community, with many patrons considering it their ‘local bar.’ The bar’s 50th anniversary celebration featured a live performance by the Dancing Noodles and other festivities, drawing in familiar faces and longtime employees. The event also raised funds for Matt Knight, a Chicago firefighter battling cancer, with 100 percent of the proceeds from hat and T-shirt sales going towards his support.

The bar’s commitment to the community is evident in its motto, which emphasizes the importance of helping those in need. Brendan O’Brien and his team have continued this tradition, hosting multiple fundraisers for first responders and their families. As the bar looks to the future, it remains a beloved institution in the Oak Lawn community, a testament to the power of family, faith, and community.

Original reporting: Block Club Chicago — read the source article.