On the corner of Wilson and Marconi a tavern was built and operated by Anheuser-Busch as early as 1902. With the onset of Prohibition, it was considered a bad investment to continue operation. So the business was sold and purchased by the Merlo family and was named Merlo's. In Italy, Merlo and his family were farmers and worked pitching hay.

When he came to America he was known as Forchett, relating to his use of his pitchfork, forchetta. Mr. Merlo was a very religious man. He was famous for not serving drinks whenever a service was conducted in St. Ambrose Church. His motto was "You don't drink when you should be praying!"

Source: http://www.milosboccegarden.com/