Burgermaster’s University District Location: A Tribute to the “Boys in the Boat”
With the 2024 Paris Olympics kicking off this week, we can’t help but get nostalgic about the University of Washington’s legendary crew team that was recently brought back to the world stage with the book and movie famously known as the “Boys in the Boat.” These remarkable athletes captured the nation’s heart with their stunning victory at the 1936 Berlin Olympics, overcoming incredible odds to achieve gold. Although Burgermaster was still 16 years away from opening when the boys crossed the finish line, the UW crew team is an important part of our history.
Nestled in Seattle’s lively University District, Burgermaster is more than just a place to enjoy a tasty burger—it’s an homage to local history and the spirit of triumph. Since its inception in 1952 Burgermaster has been a staple restaurant for the UW crew team. “Guy Harper, he graduated in ’54. I’ve talked to all these guys, and I will tell you that, going all the way back to the Guy Harper years, those guys went to the Burgermaster,” says Eric Cohen, ’82, another former UW coxswain who’s since become the program’s historian.[1]
The restaurant has become so synonymous with UW’s crew program that it boasts a section called the Oar Room. Until recently, an oar from a group of former UW rowers called the Ancient Mariners Rowing Club (AMRC) was affixed to the wall. It is rumored that the original oar was returned to the AMRC so it could be used in the promotion of the George Clooney-directed film about the Depression-era rowers, and another oar has been gifted to the restaurant in its stead.
The current oar hanging in the Oar Room isn’t merely a relic; it’s a retired oar donning the white blade of UW rowing and a symbol of perseverance, teamwork, and the indomitable spirit that defines Seattle and its inhabitants. It stands as a testament to the rich tradition of rowing excellence at the University of Washington and honors the legacy of those who dared to dream big and achieved greatness on the world stage.
As we eagerly await this year’s Olympic Games, the sight of the oar at Burgermaster serves as a poignant reminder of the dedication and passion required to reach the pinnacle of athletic achievement. It also underscores the importance of community support and local pride that resonates throughout Seattle.
Whether you’re a fan of history, a lover of great food, or simply someone who appreciates a unique dining experience, Burgermaster’s University District location offers a blend of flavors and stories that captivate the imagination. Come celebrate the legacy of the “Boys in the Boat” and enjoy a meal infused with the spirit of champions.
As we cheer on our modern-day Olympians, let’s raise a toast to the enduring legacy of the “Boys in the Boat” and the values they represent. Here’s to dreams realized, challenges overcome, and the timeless pursuit of excellence that continues to inspire us all.
[1] Seely, M. (2023) ‘A Requiem for Burgermaster” University of Washington Magazine. Available at Burgermaster — University of Washington Magazine