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History of Charlies
Charlies Mountain View was started back in September of 1977 by a man named Charlie Sperr. The building was built in the 30's on the site of the Government Camp Hotel, which burned down in 1933. Originally the building was a ski shop which later became Darr's Mountain Shop, for over 25 years. During this time the Mt. Hood Ski Patrol headquarters was housed inside. A 50's era wooden rescue sled is prominently displayed above the bar.
At that time Charlie was definitely not a stranger to the bar/restaurant industry. Charlie Sperr began in the area with the start-up of the Ratskeller in 1963. Six years later the Ratskeller West was established in Cannon Beach. There, Charlie originated Oregon's first "Cook your own" steak dinners. In 1971 the business was moved to the Inn Between in the Welches area; then back to the top of the pass where Charlie took over the management and operation of Thunder Head lodge between the years of 1972 to 1976. The hard wood bar was originally located at Thunder Head and followed Charlie to Charlies Mountain View.
Charlies Mountain View has been THE place to be on the mountain since it opened back in 1977. Charlie and his late wife Micki were always able to make Charlies a great place to be. From the food to the drinks, it is the best place on the mountain. The atmosphere has always been both a great place to come hang out with friends and also a great place to bring your family for a nice dinner in the restaurant. The wonderful “Ski Décor” has such neat history of the mountain that you will not find anywhere else. From the chair lift seats from the 2nd chair lift built in North America in the 30’s, and the large wood stove originally from the C. C. C camp at Summit Meadows. Over 40 past winners of the annual King Winter celebration have their photos placed throughout the bar.
Charlies Mountain View has been supporting several events hosted by local ski clubs since it has been opened. One of the bigger events that they support is “King Winter”, which is usually held in February each year. This is an event hosted by the Skyiente Ski Club, in which they choose one person each year to be crowned King Winter. Charlies also supports an event prior to the ski season, usually in November, called “Pray for Snow”. This is hosted by the Schnee Vogeli Ski Club, in which people gather to pray for snow to come to the mountain!!
Charlies Mountain View has always hosted live entertainment on the weekends. Over the years Charlies has hosted several different bands including their local acoustic guitarist Denny, who has been playing on various weekends since around 2000.
Charlie is still enjoying his bar with the help of his youngest son Charlie Sperr (jr). Charlie (jr) helps his father with the day to day operations. Charlie is still very active in his business and enjoys watching the improvements his son has made. Almost anytime you go into Charlies you will always see Charlie sitting in his chair at the end of the bar.
Charlies has always been a great place to come any time of the year. You will always find friendly people from the employees to the customers. You definitely would not be disappointed when you came. Hope to see you on the mountain.
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