Our Story
THE HARRISON BROTHERS
In early 2000, four brothers and their spouses came together to help Rod, the eldest brother, find a business to run. After exploring various opportunities, they acquired an older tavern in Spokane called "Jimmies Tavern." Following renovations, painting, and other improvements, they opened the Illinois Avenue Bar and Grill on November 8, 2000. This year, 2025, marks our 25th year in operation. Along with the name change, we transitioned from a tavern to a bar, now offering a selection of not only beer and wine but also mixed drinks and a full food menu
In 2004, we introduced a beer garden, one of the first in Spokane. In 2015, we acquired the property and commenced an extensive renovation project. We expanded the paved parking area adjacent to the building and constructed a dedicated events space with a 140” projection TV. The space accommodates 40+ individuals, and is available for minors when accompanied by adults. The kitchen underwent a complete overhaul with new equipment, and we added a state-of-the-art keg room. Presently, we offer 16 taps of beer at at a temperature just above 32 degrees. In 2024, we enlarged our parking lot, providing an additional 20+ spaces. In support of our community, we made a substantial donation to the Innovia Foundation following the Gray Road fire in Medical Lake and the Elk/Chatteroy fires. The enduring enterprise was initiated by the four families - Rod, Rick and Kathy, Rawley and Helen, and Rob. It has remained a family venture from the beginning and continues to be so.
These four families with roots from Hillyard have been successful in all of their endeavors.
Rod Harrison, the eldest among four brothers, accumulated extensive experience as a customer in the tavern/bar industry. This insight enabled him to understand the key factors necessary for a thriving business. Initially, he served as a bartender and managed operations until health challenges arose. Regrettably, Rod succumbed to cancer on August 21, 2018. Known for his passion for the New York Yankees, he had the opportunity to attend the final regular season game at the old Yankee Stadium in 2009. Throughout his career, he primarily worked as a journeyman book binder and print shop estimator. Notably, prior to his passing, he received recognition in the Inland Empire Softball Hall of Fame for his contributions as a player, coach, and sponsor. Additionally, in September 2001, he initiated an annual golf tournament held on the first Saturday after Labor Day, which was later renamed "Rod's" Golf Tournament in his honor. Rod completed his studies at Rogers High School in 1967.
Rick Harrison is the second eldest among his four siblings. He and his wife Kathy exchanged vows on March 22, 1975. They are blessed with a daughter and a grandson. Both dedicated their professional lives to the field of education. Rick devoted over 42 years to the athletic department at Spokane Community College. Alongside teaching, he excelled as the women's gymnastics coach, guiding SCC to numerous NJCAA national championships and top three national finishes. His coaching prowess earned him the title of national coach of the year. Kathy's career included many years of teaching, followed by nurturing their child before returning to teach mathematics and coaching gymnastics at Rogers High School. She was honored as the GSL coach of the year. Both Rick and Kathy have been inducted into the Washington State Gymnastics Coaches Association Hall of Fame. Rick graduated from Rogers High School in 1969, while Kathy completed her studies there in 1971.
Rawley Harrison is the third eldest among four brothers. He tied the knot with Helen on January 2, 1972. Rawley dedicated 6.5 years to the US Army and then spent the next 46 years at Watson Management. Meanwhile, Helen worked as a legal assistant in Spokane, balancing her professional life with raising their three children. The couple is also blessed with two granddaughters and one grandson. Rawley's expertise lies in business and accounting, and in 1994, he successfully passed the Certified Public Accountant’s Exam. He was honored with an induction into the Rogers High School Hall of Fame for his contributions to the community. Despite being visually impaired due to a genetic condition since birth, Rawley continues to actively engage in his work. Additionally, Rawley graduated from Rogers High School in 1970, while Helen graduated from Flathead High School in Kalispell, Montana, in 1971
Rob Harrison, the youngest among four brothers, initiated the idea of the business venture at the Illinois Avenue Bar and Grill with the intention of providing an opportunity for Rod. This thoughtful gesture has been a remarkable gift for everyone involved. Rob dedicated 37 years to a career in education, with the last 29 years being spent in the math department at Rogers High School. Notably, he served as the AP Calculus teacher at Rogers, guiding his students to significant success in the AP exam. Additionally, Rob invested many years coaching wrestling at the middle school level at both Libby and Shaw, and also served as a Freshman coach at Rogers. His mentorship extended to numerous students and athletes, fostering lasting connections with many former students. Rob's journey comes full circle as he graduated from Rogers High School in 1972.
Rod, Rick, Rob, & Rawley with their sister Nikki soon after the opening.