McGillin's Olde Ale House

19th century Initially called The Bell in Hand, the famous pub opened its doors in 1860 in the home of Irish immigrant William "Pa" McGillin, the owner and operator of the establishment. It was nicknamed '''McGillin's''' by those who frequented the establishment, and the bar took on the title as its official name. 20th century "Pa" McGillin operated the establishment until his death in 1901. Then his wife Catherine, known as "Ma" McGillin continued running the business, which had grown to encompass the oyster house next door as well as the remainder of the McGillin's house, displacing her 13 children. "Ma" ran the restaurant until her own death in 1937, at age 90. In 2007, the national trade magazine Nightclub and Bar included McGillin's in its Editors' Choice Top 100 bars and clubs in the United States. The list is based on annual revenue, effective marketing and advertising, uniqueness to market and other factors. Many media outlets have called McGillin's one of America's most authentic Irish pubs in the nation, including USA Today, HuffPost, Fodor's, The Daily Meal, MSN, and Orbitz. In 2013, Gourmet magazine called McGillin's one of the three coolest bars in the United States. McGillin's Olde Ale House has also become known for its elaborate Christmas decorations during the holiday season. In 2005, the bar opened a permanent, year-round Shoppe located around the corner at 123 S. Juniper Street. The Shoppe is filled with unique Philly souvenirs and gifts, Irish imports, McGillin's, Eagles and Phillies wear. Also in 2025, Cheers to McGillin's: Philly's Oldest Tavern" was published by Camino Press. The book tells the bar's colorful 166-year history including how McGillin's survived the Civil War, two World Wars, two pandemics and even Prohibition. Tales of the two families who have owned the bar and passed it down through generations, heartfelt love stories, eerie ghost stories, tales of long-time employees and beloved guests, historical photos, recipes for signature dishes and cocktails. Written by Irene Levy Baker and published by Camino Books. Forward by Edward G. Rendell, former Pennsylvania Governor & Philadelphia Mayor. ==Notable paraphernalia==

McGillin's has become the home to a sizable collection of historical Philadelphia paraphernalia, including: • A catalogue of every Liquor License held by the pub since 1871, saved by William McGillin and each successive owner • The original "Bell in Hand" sign that William "Pa" McGillin designed for the pub when it opened in 1860. The sign is a carved piece of wood of an arm ringing a bell. • The John Wanamaker's "signature" logo sign from the original Wanamaker's Department Store at 13th and Market Streets. • The Strawbridge & Clothier "Seal of Quality" logo sign from the Market Street Store - Presented to McGillin's by Peter Strawbridge, the founder's great-grandson. • Lit Brothers Department Store tiled subway sign • F.W. Woolworth's tiled subway sign indicating the defunct Market Street store • A Corestates Financial Group sign • A Le Bec Fin sign ==See also==