Popular country night club closes doors

In a surprise turn of events and to the dismay of scores of country music fans, the Brandin’ Iron has closed it’s doors for good.

The night club had been a staple in San Bernardino for more than 50 years luring locals looking for a chance to unwind, listen to popular country music and dance.

In a message to patrons on social media, owners Bill and Gloria Thomas confirmed the business was closed and being offered for sale “as is”.

“Yes, it is true. The roof trusses of the Brandin Iron are having major issues that the landlord cannot bear and will not fix. After 54 years of being the community’s meeting place, we hope the legacy of the Brandin Iron will live on in the hearts of the thousands of employees and millions of guests who have called the Brandin Iron home. The building and business will be offered for sale ‘as is’. Our hope is that someone comes along to make the repairs so that the legacy can live on. Gloria and I have been honored to own and operate the Legendary Brandin Iron for these 31 years and we are thankful for the memories and friendships we have made. Thank you for being a part of that experience. We will see you down the road,” Love Bill and Gloria Thomas.

The sorrow was real as patrons responded with well wishes and fond memories about their favorite watering hole.

“Thank you for all the friendships and memories,” read one post.

“Omg! I’m so sad! This is where I learned to line dance and worked for a short period of time as a waitress. Still have my badge Pete gave to me all those years ago. That was totally my hang out spot in the late 90s and early 2000s! I hope someone will purchase/repair it for the new generations to come,” said another.

“The B.I.,” as it is known to its regulars, had hosted thousands of country concerts including Willie Nelson, Merle Haggard, Dolly Parton, George Strait, Kenny Chesney, Jason Aldean, Taylor Swift, Morgan Wallen, and many more.

The Brandin’ Iron was also known for its spacious dance floor, line dance lessons, Juan’s homemade salsa, and mechanical bull which was included in a scene from Sacha Baron Cohen’s “Borat.”