Portland's Oldest Music Venue At Risk Of Closing; Funds Needed

PORTLAND, OR -- The four owners of Portland's oldest music venue, Laurelthirst Public House, said they need the public's support to purchase the historic building that houses the business.

The four owners, who took over the business in December 2016, said they need money for a down payment to purchase the Glisan Street building that was constructed in 1911.

"We are looking to raise $235,000 to ensure the financing and down payment before March 31, 2018 to guarantee the continuation and preservation of Portland’s oldest independent music venue, serving the community with music daily since 1988," they wrote on the GoFundMe page.

The business, which is owned by Portland musician Lewi Longmire, longtime employee Bart Yanoch and two others, currently has 16 live shows each week featuring many local artists. The venue has become a popular spot among musicians throughout the region.

"Regular patrons and guests alike will find a variety of bands and solo musicians ranging through Americana, Bluegrass, Roots Rock, Jazz, Old Funk, and Soul, just to name a few. In a testament to some of the musicians’ commitment to the Laurelthirst, the Kung Pao Chickens, our Monday late show, offering gypsy jazz swing music, has held the slot for over 18 years. Their bass player, Tim Acott, was the first person to play music at the Pub, and still plays there weekly, as he has for almost 30 years. The Tuesday happy hour band, Jackstraw, has held their residency for 22 years and still draws a full room of happy bluegrass enthusiasts," the GoFundMe page said.

The owners said they need the funding to preserve Portland's music scene and is offering rewards for donations.

"We are humbly asking you for donations to purchase the building. We will continue to support and advance the community of the Thirst for this new generation and ownership of the building will ensure this. Our style of fostering community would unlikely surivive if the building were to be sold to someone that wanted to maximize their investment by charging market value rent in the current Portland real estate climate. Our hope is to create a sustainable situation that allows us to serve the music and the magic by ensuring the continued affordability of preserving our humble little space," the GoFundMe page said.

--Photo via GoFundMe page