In a salute to our oldest customer, roaster and friend, we would like to take a moment to put the spotlight on W.C. Clarke’s Coffee, State College PA’s original coffee roastery, founded in 1977.
A Coffee Roasting Maverick
Bill Clarke first started in the coffee biz way back in 1976. Think about it. That was just five years after Starbucks started. A long time ago? Yes. A maverick? Absolutely. Imagine walking into a downstairs store that has not changed much since it opened. This is a good thing, as you can truly feel the history of the place. Besides great fresh roasted coffee and fantastic cheese, they are really known as the “Cheers” of coffee. You remember, “where everybody knows your name.” W.C. Clarke’s Coffee shop also serves as a place of conversation and solving of all the World’s pressing issues. They also have an honor system when buying cups of coffee. Customers fill up at the airpot station and leave their money on the counter. You have to see it to believe that it works.
Tough Times Make For Strong Friends
Bill recently lost his wife, June, after a courageous battle with cancer. He was married over 50 years. While battling cancer June was such an inspiration to my wife Kat, writing her notes of inspiration while Kat too was battling cancer herself. I have enjoyed the 25 year ride. Bill has seen many things happen in my life. We are all in this together. Bill was and always will be invoice #1000, our first invoice at Vournas Coffee Trading. Next time you are in State College, stop by and see it for yourself and be sure to tell Bill that Andrew sent you.
See The Video
Linked above at the top of this post is a fantastic youtube video about W.C. Clarke’s Coffee, Bill’s life in coffee and his personal life philosophy that was filmed in February of this year.
And remember, “Do What Makes You Happy” – Bill Clarke
All The Best,
Andrew Vournas
