New Hope came together on June 11 to celebrate and honor John Larsen, a renowned music club owner who built John and Peter’s into an iconic local staple, writes Jeff Werner for the Patch.

Larsen, who gave back to the community in many ways, passed away in October. The memorial event took place at New Hope Arts Center, which was followed by a reception at John and Peter’s.

The special event received unanimous approval from New Hope Borough Council during its June workshop meeting.

The event also served as a fundraiser for New Hope Arts. The organization was founded by Larsen’s wife, Robin, who ran the center until her death in 2009.

“Many may be shocked by this, but when John started John and Peters it was a breakfast place and coffeehouse and evolved into what it is today,” said Mayor Keller.

“John’s story is pretty special,” and included being smuggled out of Europe in a rolled-up carpet to escape the Nazi invasion.

John nurtured many rising talents at John and Peter’s, including Mary Chapin Carpenter, Norah Jones, and Ween.

Read more about the legendary John Larsen in the Patch.

New Hope, Bucks County, PA