Widmer Turns 25

This year marks the 25th Anniversary of both BridgePort and Widmer. I'm not sure about the historical arcana, but I think Widmer actually incorporated first, but didn't get beer out the door until after BridgePort. BridgePort lays claim to Oregon's oldest brewery, without dispute from Widmer; the reality, though, is that these two companies, along with Mike and Brian McMenamin, Art Larrance, and Fred Bowman, were all having the same idea at roughly the same time. They are the pillars of the Oregon brewing rennaissance, and this is a great year to look back at what these pioneers accomplished.

I'll take a tour down memory lane this week, part history, part reminiscence, but in the meantime, have a look at Angelo's interview with Rob (part 1, part 2)--really good stuff for those of you who love history. Also, make a note that on Thursday (April 2nd, the official date), the Gasthaus will be serving all pints for a buck fitty--1984 style. 11 am to 11 pm, 955 N Russell.