The original “Whig & Courier” opened its doors in 1984. It’s founder, Steve Johnson, named the pub after the nineteenth century Bangor newspaper in an effort to support downtown Bangor’s history and revitalization effort. Nestled between Pepino’s and McCarthy’s on Franklin Street in the “Green House” (one flight down from street level), the small 24 seat pub was considered one of Bangor’s best “little hidaways”.

In the summer of 1986, after two very successful years in the business, Johnson decided the Whig had finally outgrown it’s 24 seat capacity and moved it to its present and much larger location on 18 Broad Street in Haymarket Square. It was at this point that the “Pub & Restaurant” was added to its name.

Now, after nearly 24 years in business, the Whig & Courier has truly become a staple in the cultural landscape of downtown Bangor. But don’t believe everything you read on the internet. After all, we’re probably a little biased. The current owner (for the past 11 years), Chris Geaghan, would love for you to come down in person and see for yourself why the Whig is truly “Where Business and Social Pleasures Mix”.

-Greg Lunn

(Day Manager and
Whig employee for
over 23 years.)