Membership

Columbia City Hotel Cooperative Corporation
A Unique Patron-Owned Cooperative

Relive the Legacy—Be a Part of the City Hotel Restaurant’s Historic Revival

Ah, the good old days in Columbia—the era when the City Hotel Restaurant and What Cheer Saloon were renowned for their fine dining, handcrafted libations, and lively camaraderie. These establishments weren’t just places to eat and drink; they were where stories were shared, history was made, and memories were woven into the fabric of this quaint town.

Now, we are bringing those days back.

In 2024, we proudly celebrated two years since reopening these beloved icons under the Columbia City Hotel Cooperative Corporation (CCHCC)—a unique, patron-owned cooperative dedicated to restoring and preserving this historic treasure for the community and all who cherish Columbia’s rich past.

Thanks to the dedication of our founding board, the City Hotel Restaurant and What Cheer Saloon have once again become vibrant gathering places. The What Cheer Saloon—an institution in its own right—is the only establishment within the town limits licensed to serve hard spirits and offers delicious bar bites. Meanwhile, the City Hotel Restaurant continues to serve lunch and dinner to the public providing an unforgettable dining experience infused with history. For private gatherings and special events, we offer our main dining room as well as the Morgan Room for a more intimate setting.

But to keep this dream alive, we need you.

Our cooperative has grown to include over 300 local shareholder members, and we are striving to reach 500 members to secure the future of these cherished landmarks. This is your opportunity to own a piece of history while ensuring that these legendary establishments remain a cornerstone of Columbia for generations to come.

Become a Member—Invest in Tradition
For a one-time investment of $1,000, you will:
✔ Become a shareholder of this historic establishment and unique cooperative.
✔ Receive exclusive member discounts at the restaurant and saloon.
✔ Be eligible for an annual refund based on patronage in profitable years.
✔ Enjoy priority access to holiday celebrations, special events, and entertainment.

This is more than just an investment—it’s a chance to preserve history, build community, and create lasting memories.

Join us today—before memberships fill up—and become part of something truly historic.

If you would like to join our community effort to help keep this fine establishment with elevated dining and libations open in Columbia State Historic Park, contact us now. Send an email to treasurer.cchcc@gmail.com, or write us at CCHCCBoard, PO Box 1850, Columbia, California 95310.

Documents available upon request include:
Articles of Incorporation of Columbia City Hotel Cooperative Corporation
Columbia City Hotel Cooperative Corporation Bylaws
Columbia City Hotel Cooperative Corporation Membership Agreement
Columbia City Hotel Cooperative Corporation Members Handbook

The Cooperative operates the City Hotel Restaurant and What Cheer Saloon as a concession under contract with the State of California Department of Parks and Recreation within Columbia State Historic Park.