McMenamins is a chain of brewpubs, breweries, music venues, and hotels in the Pacific Northwest of the United States. The company was founded in 1983 by Mike McMenamin and Brian McMenamin in Portland, Oregon.
McMenamins is known for its eclectic atmosphere, which often includes live music, local artwork, and historical artifacts. The company's pubs are often located in historic buildings, and many of them have been renovated to reflect the history of the local area. McMenamins also has a strong commitment to sustainability, and many of its pubs are powered by renewable energy sources. The company is also a major supporter of local arts and culture, and it often hosts events and workshops in its venues.
McMenamins has grown significantly since its humble beginnings in 1983. The company now operates over 50 locations in Oregon, Washington, and California. McMenamins is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, and it has been featured in numerous publications, including The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and The Los Angeles Times.
history of mcmenamins
McMenamins is a chain of brewpubs, breweries, music venues, and hotels in the Pacific Northwest of the United States. The company was founded in 1983 by Mike McMenamin and Brian McMenamin in Portland, Oregon.
- Founders: Mike McMenamin and Brian McMenamin
- Year founded: 1983
- Location: Pacific Northwest of the United States
- Number of locations: Over 50
- Types of venues: Brewpubs, breweries, music venues, hotels
- Commitment to sustainability: Many pubs are powered by renewable energy sources
- Support for local arts and culture: Hosts events and workshops in its venues
McMenamins has grown significantly since its humble beginnings in 1983. The company is now a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, and it has been featured in numerous publications, including The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and The Los Angeles Times.
1. Founders
Mike McMenamin and Brian McMenamin are the founders of McMenamins, a chain of brewpubs, breweries, music venues, and hotels in the Pacific Northwest of the United States. The company was founded in 1983 in Portland, Oregon, and has since grown to over 50 locations. McMenamins is known for its eclectic atmosphere, which often includes live music, local artwork, and historical artifacts. The company's pubs are often located in historic buildings, and many of them have been renovated to reflect the history of the local area.
Mike and Brian McMenamin are both passionate about history and architecture. They have a deep appreciation for the unique character of the Pacific Northwest, and they have made it their mission to preserve and celebrate the region's history through their pubs. McMenamins pubs are often located in historic buildings, and many of them have been renovated to reflect the history of the local area. For example, the Kennedy School in Portland, Oregon, was once an elementary school. McMenamins has renovated the building to include a brewpub, a movie theater, and a hotel. The Kennedy School is now a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, and it is a great example of McMenamins' commitment to preserving the history of the Pacific Northwest.
Mike and Brian McMenamin are more than just founders; they are the driving force behind McMenamins' success. Their passion for history, architecture, and community is evident in every aspect of the company. McMenamins is a unique and special place, and it is all thanks to the vision and hard work of Mike and Brian McMenamin.
2. Year founded
The year 1983 is a significant one in the history of McMenamins. It was the year that the company was founded by Mike McMenamin and Brian McMenamin in Portland, Oregon. The company's first location was a brewpub in a converted church, and it quickly became a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. McMenamins has since grown to over 50 locations in Oregon, Washington, and California, and it is known for its eclectic atmosphere, which often includes live music, local artwork, and historical artifacts.
The year 1983 is important for McMenamins because it marks the beginning of the company's commitment to preserving and celebrating the history of the Pacific Northwest. McMenamins pubs are often located in historic buildings, and many of them have been renovated to reflect the history of the local area. For example, the Kennedy School in Portland, Oregon, was once an elementary school. McMenamins has renovated the building to include a brewpub, a movie theater, and a hotel. The Kennedy School is now a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, and it is a great example of McMenamins' commitment to preserving the history of the Pacific Northwest.
McMenamins' commitment to history is also evident in the company's menu. The company offers a variety of dishes that are inspired by the history of the Pacific Northwest. For example, the "Oregon Trail Chili" is a hearty chili that is made with locally sourced ingredients. The "Salmon BLT" is a sandwich that is made with smoked salmon, bacon, lettuce, and tomato. These dishes are just a few examples of how McMenamins celebrates the history of the Pacific Northwest through its food.
The year 1983 is a significant one in the history of McMenamins because it marks the beginning of the company's commitment to preserving and celebrating the history of the Pacific Northwest. This commitment is evident in the company's choice of locations, its renovation of historic buildings, and its menu. McMenamins is a unique and special place, and it is all thanks to the company's dedication to history.
3. Location
The location of McMenamins in the Pacific Northwest of the United States is significant for several reasons. First, the Pacific Northwest is a region with a rich history and culture, and McMenamins has been able to tap into this history and culture to create a unique and authentic experience for its customers. For example, many McMenamins locations are housed in historic buildings, such as the Kennedy School in Portland, Oregon, which was once an elementary school. McMenamins has renovated these buildings to reflect their history, and they often feature historical artifacts and artwork.
Second, the Pacific Northwest is a region with a strong sense of community, and McMenamins has been able to become a part of this community by supporting local businesses and organizations. For example, McMenamins often hosts events and workshops in its venues, and it partners with local schools and non-profits to support their programs. This has helped McMenamins to build a loyal following of customers who appreciate the company's commitment to the community.
Third, the Pacific Northwest is a region with a beautiful natural environment, and McMenamins has been able to take advantage of this environment to create a unique and inviting atmosphere for its customers. For example, many McMenamins locations are located near parks and waterways, and they offer outdoor seating and activities. This has helped McMenamins to attract customers who are looking for a place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
Overall, the location of McMenamins in the Pacific Northwest of the United States has been a major factor in the company's success. The region's rich history, culture, community, and natural environment have all contributed to the unique and authentic experience that McMenamins offers its customers.
4. Number of locations
The fact that McMenamins has over 50 locations is a testament to the company's success and popularity. It also speaks to the company's commitment to preserving and celebrating the history of the Pacific Northwest. With so many locations, McMenamins is able to reach a wide audience and share its unique brand of hospitality.
- Geographic diversity: McMenamins has locations in Oregon, Washington, and California, which allows the company to share the history and culture of the Pacific Northwest with a diverse audience. For example, the Kennedy School in Portland, Oregon, is a historic building that has been renovated to include a brewpub, a movie theater, and a hotel. The Kennedy School is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, and it is a great example of how McMenamins celebrates the history of the Pacific Northwest.
- Variety of venues: McMenamins offers a variety of venues, including brewpubs, breweries, music venues, and hotels. This allows the company to cater to a wide range of customers, from those who are looking for a place to grab a beer and watch a game to those who are looking for a place to stay for a weekend getaway. For example, the McMenamins Kennedy School in Portland, Oregon, is a popular destination for both tourists and locals. The Kennedy School offers a variety of amenities, including a brewpub, a movie theater, and a hotel. This makes the Kennedy School a great place to stay for a weekend getaway or to simply relax and enjoy a meal and a drink.
- Commitment to community: McMenamins is committed to being a part of the community. The company often hosts events and workshops in its venues, and it partners with local schools and non-profits to support their programs. For example, the McMenamins Kennedy School in Portland, Oregon, often hosts events and workshops in its community room. The Kennedy School also partners with local schools and non-profits to support their programs. This shows McMenamins' commitment to being a part of the community.
- Economic impact: McMenamins has a significant economic impact on the communities in which it operates. The company employs over 2,000 people and generates millions of dollars in revenue each year. For example, the McMenamins Kennedy School in Portland, Oregon, is a major employer in the neighborhood. The Kennedy School also generates millions of dollars in revenue each year, which helps to support the local economy.
Overall, the fact that McMenamins has over 50 locations is a testament to the company's success and popularity. It also speaks to the company's commitment to preserving and celebrating the history of the Pacific Northwest. With so many locations, McMenamins is able to reach a wide audience and share its unique brand of hospitality.
5. Types of venues
The types of venues that McMenamins operates play a significant role in the company's connection to the history of the Pacific Northwest. Brewpubs, breweries, music venues, and hotels are all integral parts of the region's culture and heritage.
Brewpubs and breweries have a long history in the Pacific Northwest. The region is home to some of the oldest and most respected breweries in the United States. McMenamins has played a major role in the revival of the craft beer movement in the Pacific Northwest. The company's brewpubs offer a wide variety of beers, many of which are inspired by the region's history and culture. For example, McMenamins' Terminator Stout is a nod to the region's logging industry. The beer is made with roasted barley and hops, which give it a rich, flavorful taste.
Music venues have also played a major role in the history of the Pacific Northwest. The region has produced some of the most iconic musicians in American history, including Jimi Hendrix, Kurt Cobain, and Eddie Vedder. McMenamins has a long history of supporting live music. The company's venues host a wide variety of musical acts, from local bands to national touring acts. For example, McMenamins' Crystal Ballroom in Portland, Oregon, is a popular venue for concerts and events. The ballroom has hosted some of the biggest names in music, including the Grateful Dead, Bob Dylan, and Bruce Springsteen.
Hotels have also played a major role in the history of the Pacific Northwest. The region is a popular tourist destination, and hotels have been essential in providing accommodations for visitors. McMenamins has a number of hotels in the Pacific Northwest, many of which are located in historic buildings. For example, McMenamins Kennedy School in Portland, Oregon, is a former elementary school that has been converted into a hotel. The hotel features many of the school's original features, including the classrooms and the gymnasium.
The types of venues that McMenamins operates are all connected to the history of the Pacific Northwest. The company's brewpubs, breweries, music venues, and hotels celebrate the region's culture and heritage. McMenamins is committed to preserving and celebrating the history of the Pacific Northwest, and the company's venues are a key part of that commitment.
6. Commitment to sustainability
McMenamins' commitment to sustainability is an important part of the company's history and culture. The company has a long history of using renewable energy sources to power its pubs, and it is constantly looking for ways to reduce its environmental impact. For example, McMenamins was one of the first companies in the United States to install solar panels on its buildings. The company also uses wind power and geothermal energy to power its pubs.
McMenamins' commitment to sustainability is more than just a marketing ploy. The company genuinely believes that it is important to protect the environment. McMenamins' pubs are often located in historic buildings, and the company takes great care to preserve the character of these buildings while also making them more sustainable. For example, McMenamins Kennedy School in Portland, Oregon, is a former elementary school that has been converted into a hotel. The hotel features many of the school's original features, including the classrooms and the gymnasium. However, the hotel has also been updated with solar panels and other sustainable features.
McMenamins' commitment to sustainability is a shining example of how businesses can make a positive impact on the environment. The company's pubs are not only sustainable, but they are also beautiful and inviting places to visit. McMenamins is a leader in the sustainability movement, and the company's commitment to protecting the environment is an important part of its history.
7. Support for local arts and culture
McMenamins' support for local arts and culture is a key part of the company's history and culture. The company has a long history of hosting events and workshops in its venues, and it is committed to providing a platform for local artists and musicians. This commitment is evident in the company's choice of venues, its programming, and its partnerships with local arts organizations.
Many of McMenamins' venues are located in historic buildings, which gives the company a unique opportunity to showcase local arts and culture. For example, the Kennedy School in Portland, Oregon, is a former elementary school that has been converted into a hotel. The hotel features many of the school's original features, including the classrooms and the gymnasium. However, the hotel has also been updated with a state-of-the-art performance space that hosts a variety of events, including concerts, plays, and dance performances.
McMenamins' programming is also designed to support local arts and culture. The company hosts a variety of events, including open mics, art shows, and workshops. These events provide a platform for local artists and musicians to share their work with the community. For example, the Bagdad Theater in Portland, Oregon, is a historic movie theater that hosts a variety of events, including film screenings, concerts, and comedy shows. The Bagdad Theater also has a gallery space that features the work of local artists.
In addition to hosting events and workshops, McMenamins also partners with local arts organizations to support their programs. For example, McMenamins is a major sponsor of the Portland Institute for Contemporary Art (PICA). PICA is a non-profit arts organization that produces and presents contemporary art exhibitions, performances, and educational programs. McMenamins' support of PICA helps to ensure that the organization can continue to provide a platform for local artists and musicians.
McMenamins' support for local arts and culture is a key part of the company's history and culture. The company's commitment to providing a platform for local artists and musicians is evident in its choice of venues, its programming, and its partnerships with local arts organizations. McMenamins is a valuable asset to the Pacific Northwest arts community, and the company's support for local arts and culture is an important part of its legacy.
FAQs about the history of McMenamins
Below are six commonly asked questions and their answers about the history of McMenamins. Read on to learn more about this iconic Pacific Northwest company.
Question 1: When was McMenamins founded?
McMenamins was founded in 1983 by brothers Mike and Brian McMenamin.
Question 2: Where is McMenamins headquartered?
McMenamins is headquartered in Portland, Oregon.
Question 3: How many McMenamins locations are there?
There are over 50 McMenamins locations in Oregon, Washington, and California.
Question 4: What types of venues does McMenamins operate?
McMenamins operates brewpubs, breweries, music venues, and hotels.
Question 5: Is McMenamins committed to sustainability?
Yes, McMenamins is committed to sustainability. Many of its pubs are powered by renewable energy sources.
Question 6: Does McMenamins support local arts and culture?
Yes, McMenamins supports local arts and culture by hosting events and workshops in its venues, and partnering with local arts organizations.
These are just a few of the many questions that people have about the history of McMenamins. For more information, please visit the McMenamins website or contact the company directly.
Summary: McMenamins is a successful and popular company with a rich history. The company's commitment to preserving and celebrating the history of the Pacific Northwest is evident in its choice of locations, its renovation of historic buildings, and its menu. McMenamins is also committed to sustainability and supports local arts and culture. These are just a few of the many things that make McMenamins a unique and special place.
Transition to the next article section: The history of McMenamins is a fascinating story of entrepreneurship, innovation, and community involvement. The company has played a major role in the revival of the craft beer movement in the Pacific Northwest, and it has also been a strong supporter of local arts and culture. McMenamins is a valuable asset to the Pacific Northwest community, and the company's legacy is sure to continue for many years to come.
Tips
Here are some tips to keep in mind when exploring the history of McMenamins:
Tip 1: Visit a McMenamins location
The best way to experience the history of McMenamins is to visit one of its locations. McMenamins has over 50 locations in Oregon, Washington, and California, so there's sure to be one near you. Each location has its own unique history and atmosphere, so be sure to explore and learn about the building and the surrounding area.
Tip 2: Take a McMenamins history tour
McMenamins offers a variety of history tours at its locations. These tours are led by knowledgeable staff who can share the stories behind the buildings and the company. Tours are typically free and open to the public, so be sure to check the McMenamins website for more information.
Tip 3: Read about the history of McMenamins
There are a number of books and articles that have been written about the history of McMenamins. These resources can provide you with a deeper understanding of the company's founding, its growth, and its commitment to preserving and celebrating the history of the Pacific Northwest.
Tip 4: Talk to McMenamins employees
McMenamins employees are a wealth of knowledge about the company's history. If you're curious about a particular location or event, don't hesitate to ask an employee for more information. They're sure to be happy to share their knowledge with you.
Tip 5: Get involved with McMenamins
One of the best ways to learn about the history of McMenamins is to get involved with the company. McMenamins hosts a variety of events and workshops throughout the year, and many of these events are free and open to the public. By attending these events, you can learn more about McMenamins' history and culture, and you can also meet other people who are interested in the company.
Summary: Exploring the history of McMenamins is a rewarding experience. By following these tips, you can learn more about the company's founding, its growth, and its commitment to preserving and celebrating the history of the Pacific Northwest.
Transition to the article's conclusion: McMenamins is a unique and special company with a rich history. The company's commitment to preserving and celebrating the history of the Pacific Northwest is evident in its choice of locations, its renovation of historic buildings, and its menu. McMenamins is also committed to sustainability and supports local arts and culture. These are just a few of the many things that make McMenamins a valuable asset to the Pacific Northwest community.
Conclusion
The history of McMenamins is a story of entrepreneurship, innovation, and community involvement. The company has played a major role in the revival of the craft beer movement in the Pacific Northwest, and it has also been a strong supporter of local arts and culture. McMenamins is a valuable asset to the Pacific Northwest community, and the company's legacy is sure to continue for many years to come.
McMenamins' commitment to preserving and celebrating the history of the Pacific Northwest is evident in its choice of locations, its renovation of historic buildings, and its menu. The company's pubs are often located in historic buildings, and many of them have been renovated to reflect the history of the local area. For example, the Kennedy School in Portland, Oregon, is a former elementary school that has been converted into a hotel. The hotel features many of the school's original features, including the classrooms and the gymnasium.
McMenamins is also committed to sustainability and supports local arts and culture. Many of the company's pubs are powered by renewable energy sources, and McMenamins often hosts events and workshops in its venues. The company also partners with local arts organizations to support their programs.
McMenamins is a unique and special company with a rich history. The company's commitment to preserving and celebrating the history of the Pacific Northwest, its commitment to sustainability, and its support for local arts and culture make it a valuable asset to the community.
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