Help Save the First & Last Chance Tavern

My name is Katie Olson and my husband, Kyle and I have owned the First and Last Chance Tavern since 2019. Although we had never owned a bar before, we bought the business anyway because we loved it so much and didn’t want to see it change. We signed a five year lease with the County in the spring of 2019 and for the last five years have loved owning and operating this little piece of Ellensburg history.

The lease is now up and the county has marked the property for surplus, meaning a public auction will be held on August 1st 2024 to sell it. The minimum bid for the sale is $150,000. The property is approx. 6,800 square feet and includes the building and the little bit of parking in front and behind it. We have gathered all our savings and asked family members for help but could still use funds to ensure the purchase. If we don’t buy the property, we’ll not only lose our livelihood, but the FNL entirely. It’s hard asking for money but we love this tavern and I know it means a lot to so many people, who voiced they want to help save this historic icon. Our goal is to buy the property and keep the FNL operating for another 100 years. If you feel inclined to donate, we sincerely appreciate it.

All money donated will go towards the purchase of the property on August 1st. Should we not win the auction, your donations will be returned to you. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts, we hope to belly up to the bar with you in the very near future!