Our newly-published book delves into the rich history of McGillin’s, the oldest continuously operating tavern in Philadelphia and one of the oldest bars in the country. McGillin’s opened in 1860 — the year Abe Lincoln was elected and around the time the Liberty Bell cracked. The book takes you on a journey through time from just-discovered historical facts to modern-day secrets including:
Written by Irene Levy Baker, McGillin’s long-time publicist and published by Camino Books. Forward by Edward G. Rendell, Pennsylvania Governor (2003-2011) and Philadelphia Mayor (1992-2000).
Over the years the historic bar has been owned by only two families: the McGillins, who raised their thirteen children upstairs and passed the bar down through three generations and the current owners, who have run the bar for three generations.
Both families have set the bar high. They have dedicated every waking hour to being the best, to making memories, and to keeping the bar’s 165 year history alive. And through it all, the bar has become part of the soul of Philadelphia and an iconic American institution.
Drink in some liquid history with your friends from McGillin’s
5:30 pm
Sneak Peek Party & Book Launch — We’ll celebrate our NEW book, “Cheers To McGillin’s: Philly’s Oldest Tavern” with a party & then share colorful tales about the bar’s history, romances, ghosts, celebrities and survival through wars, a fire, and even Prohibition. Signed books available for purchase. Each attendee gets: discounted McGillin’s house beers, discount coupon for lunch at McGillin’s and for merch at the McGillin’s Shoppe. Limited space/seating not guaranteed. Free – pay as you go. Co-presented by the Free Library of Philadelphia Foundation. Doors open 5:30 p.m. Book Talk 7 – 8 p.m. on Wednesday, November 12 (Ma’s birthday!) RSVP needed.
>> Click Here to RSVP
5:30 pm
Book Talk & Beer: We’ll celebrate our NEW book, “Cheers To McGillin’s: Philly’s Oldest Tavern” with a party & then share colorful tales about the bar’s history, romances, ghosts, celebrities and survival through wars, a fire, and even Prohibition. Each attendee gets: discounted McGillin’s house beers, discount coupon for lunch at McGillin’s and for merch at the McGillin’s Shoppe. Limited space/seating not guaranteed. Free – pay as you go. Signed books available for purchase. Door opens 5:30 p.m. Book talk 7-8 p.m. Thursday, November 13. RSVP needed.
>> Click Here to RSVP7:00 pm
Book Talk at the Union League: For Union League Members only.
6:00 pm
Virtual Book Talk with the Preservation Alliance for Greater Philadelphia: Great for non-local fans! Details coming soon. To be notified, email us at mcgillins@aol.com. Put “PAGP” in the subject line.
5:30 pm
Couples Reunion: Book Talk for couples who met at McGillin’s, had their 1st date, got engaged here, stopped by after their wedding or have a romantic connection to McGillin’s. Details coming soon. To be notified email us at McGillins@aol.com with subject line “couples reunion”
7:00 pm
Book Talk at the Historical Society of Pennsylvania: National Beer Day! Details coming soon. To be notified, email us at McGillins@aol.com with subject line “historical society”
