Gearhart History: Pioneers, Hotels, and More

Tom Smith will be presenting this month’s History & Hops discussion with a video presentation on the storied past of Gearhart’s hotels and the town’s unique connection to culinary icon James Beard. Through rare photographs, historical documents, and firsthand accounts from local pioneers, we’ll explore the rise and fall of Gearhart’s most famous hotels—from the grand Gearhart Park Hotel of 1890 to the beloved Gearhart Hotel by the Sea. The presentation will also feature video clips and interviews with longtime residents, including Dick Fettig, Bob McEwan, and Denny Holmes, who share personal stories and insights into these iconic establishments. We’ll then transition into the fascinating story of James Beard, whose formative years in Gearhart helped shape his passion for food, with a special segment on Denny Holmes’ daughter’s experience working with Beard and receiving a scholarship to the Culinary Institute of America. With rich storytelling and firsthand recollections, this program offers an engaging glimpse into the history of hospitality and gastronomy along the Clatsop coast. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn, reminisce, and raise a glass to Gearhart’s colorful past!

Tom Smith is an esteemed professional with a rich history spanning multiple sectors. Currently volunteering at Clatsop County Historical Society, he's actively involved with digitizing and archiving over 200 years of history with the Clatsop County Historical Society. As Secretary for Surf Pines Homeowners Association, Tom has undertaken the digitization of more than 12,000 historical documents, significantly enhancing community engagement. His work experience includes regulatory compliance consulting, Director of Government Affairs at Solcon Inc., with a background in executive recruitment, web design, entrepreneurial ventures and pioneering the computerized documentation of government regulations.

History & Hops is a series of local history discussions hosted by the Seaside Museum on the last Thursday of each month, September through May, at Seaside Brewing Co.

The event is free to attend, and everyone is welcome to join in the fun!

History & Hops is supported by the Seaside Public Library and Seaside Brewing Co.