In December 1933, Baltimore City issued a liquor license to this location the day after prohibition was repealed, where it has remained for over 72 years. All around Canton, commercial property is being converted to residential, warehouses to upscale restaurants and in 2002 VanPatten’s Pub become Mike McGovern’s Irish Pub.

 

Baltimore native Mike McGovern, was a professional photographer and outdoor enthusiast who lost his life while kayaking in the Prince William Sound of Alaska in August of 2000, he was 38. His younger brother Jim decided to find venues to show Mike’s extensive archive of Photographs, and after a few art shows, Jim decided to purchase a Tavern to find a permanent home for Mike’s work. Since Mike began his love of photography as a child, his archive is vast and diverse, and since he is Irish, the theme is easy.

 

Mike McGovern’s is the true Irish collective. On our walls you’ll find beautiful photographs of Ireland and numerous historical items from Irelands troubled past, and obvious points that the troubles are not over. An Phoblact and Sinn Fein keep us up to date with the latest news from across the sea. Our Pub celebrations will always include significant Irish events such as May 5, which some may know as Cinco de Mayo, is Bobby Sands Memorial Day at Mike McGovern’s.

 

Everyone, Republican or otherwise has their own part to play. No part is too great or

too small, no one is too old or too young to do something.

 

-Bobby Sands

 

 

While listening to Irish music, you will also find local artists work that are featured on a monthly basis, and an excellent collection of beers and wines from around the world. While it still remains a neighborhood tavern, the clientele come from all over the metropolitan area, of all ages and backgrounds. Everyone is welcome here, Cead Mile Failte!!, ( Thatcher and Paisley excluded).