Common Folk in the Boat (Ep. 14 - Larry Lamb)

Steamboat Locals

Presented by Billo Premium Cannabis In this episode, Eli and Dave sit down with Larry Lamb, a longtime Steamboat Springs resident who was a co-owner of the iconic Tugboat Saloon, a landmark at the base of Mount Werner. The Tugboat, originally established in 1972 by Carl Schuck, Carl Farnham, Bill Gardner, and Tex McGill, became a hub of local culture and a beloved watering hole for residents and visitors alike. Larry Lamb, along with Hank Edwards, took over the ownership in the late 1970s, and under their stewardship, the Tugboat evolved into more than just a bar. It became a living museum of Steamboat's ski-town culture, featuring live music, memorabilia from local sports heroes, and countless stories of Steamboat's colorful past. The Tugboat was famous for its lively atmosphere, hosting raucous parties and serving as the meeting spot for countless couples. It also gained a reputation as a destination for live performances, with local musicians and national acts gracing its small stage, adding to the Tugboat’s legendary status in the Yampa Valley. However, after nearly 40 years in operation, the Tugboat closed its doors in 2011. Jim Beatty purchased the property but plans to revive the bar never materialized. In 2024, after years of disrepair and a dangerous structure designation, the building was slated for demolition, marking the end of an era in Steamboat's history. Despite efforts to preserve the building due to its historical significance, the structure could not be saved. Lamb's legacy as a key figure in Steamboat's social fabric lives on through the memories of the Tugboat and the many patrons who passed through its doors, capturing the essence of Steamboat's vibrant and unique mountain town community.