Joe Stern, owner of Cobden’s Iron Horse Saloon, dies at 51
POSTED: June 21, 2008
BROWN COUNTY — Joe Stern, 51, the owner of Cobden’s Iron Horse Saloon died Friday at his Springfield home.
A motorcyclist who enjoyed hopping on his bike and heading cross country to events like the Sturgis, S.D. bike rally — Stern created the saloon that became an area destination for bikers, antique and muscle car enthusiasts.
Bike nights and bike/car runs were regularly held at the Iron Horse during the spring, summer and early fall.
Stern promoted his events by hiring live rock and roll and country music bands.
He bought highway signs and media advertising that drew farmers, business professionals, nurses, teachers and others that rode their bikes to Cobden from area communities like Springfield, Sleepy Eye, Morgan, Gibbon, Wabasso, New Ulm and Searles.
Iron Horse Saloon expansion projects included the addition of a large, roofed outdoor patio with picnic tables behind the original saloon.
The Iron Horse was featured online in Frank’s Biker News.
Arrangements are pending at Sturm Funeral Home in Springfield.
