Childhood Friends Turn Historic Fresno Home Into New Bar

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A group of childhood friends have purchased a 100-year-old home in Downtown Fresno and are transforming it into a new bar called Moses McQueen's. The home has a rich history, having previously served as a duplex and commercial building for an Armenian immigrant family's painting business. The new owners say they plan to preserve the character and stories of the historic property while creating a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere for patrons.

Why it matters

The opening of Moses McQueen's represents an effort to revitalize Downtown Fresno by repurposing a historic property and creating a unique, community-focused gathering space. As Fresno continues to evolve, projects like this that blend the city's past and present can help attract new residents and businesses to the area.

The details

The group of friends purchased the home on 634 Van Ness Ave. in 2017 with the goal of turning it into something special. After falling in love with the property's character and stories, they decided to open a bar that would preserve the home's history while offering a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere for guests. The home was originally built in the late 1800s and has served as a duplex, commercial building, and the site of an Armenian immigrant family's painting business over the decades.

• The friends purchased the 100-year-old home in 2017.
• The home previously served as a duplex in 1919 and a commercial building in 1935.
• The Armenian immigrant family's painting business, "Sam Elia & Son," operated out of the property until 1951.

What’s next

Moses McQueen's is expected to open its doors to the public in the coming months, offering a unique blend of historic charm and modern hospitality to Downtown Fresno.