LINCOLN PARK — This year marks the 70th anniversary for River Shannon.
To celebrate, the dog-friendly Irish pub, 425 W. Armitage Ave., threw an anniversary bash with food, drinks and stellar prizes, including a free trip to Ireland and an iPad, on Sunday, from 5 p.m. to 3 a.m.
When River Shannon opened in 1946, it became the 28th pub to receive a liquor license in Chicago.
Patrons celebrating River Shannon's opening day in 1946. [All photos Courtesy/River Shannon]
Even though the bar scene in Lincoln Park has changed dramatically since then, the Irish pub has managed to keep its doors open by staying true to its roots, according to Lyn McKinney, owner of the pub and Lodge Management Group.
Mina Bloom chats about the history of River Shannon.
“For seven decades, River Shannon has lived by the number one rule of Irish hospitality: ‘You're a guest on your first night; after that, you’re a regular,'" McKinney said in a prepared statement.
Cutting the ribbon on the pub's opening day in 1946.
Much of the pub's original interior, including the tin ceiling, stained glass and ornate wood details, has been preserved.
Celebrating Irish culture has remained a theme over the years, and the anniversary party was no different, offering corned beef sandwiches and drink specials. Bagpipe musicians performed and the original owners, the Cloherty family, led a "re-christening ceremony" with water from the actual River Shannon in Ireland.
The person wearing the best 1940s-themed outfit won an iPad. The person who could name the most taverns that had a license before the River Shannon was awarded 365 $6 gift cards to the pub, which are good for both food and drinks.
Much of the original interior has been preserved. [Courtesy/River Shannon Facebook]
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