Nestled in the heart of Gimli lies the Ship and Plough Tavern, a delightful pub renowned for its presence. After a decade of thriving as one of the town’s beloved hangouts for delectable dishes, refreshing beverages, and lively performances, owner Scott Carmen is commemorating this milestone.
The building at 62 Centre St. was known for a long time as Kronshaws Jewelers. Eventually, it was converted into a pub, which kept the Kronshaws moniker. When it changed hands some years later, it was known as the Grinder Pub and Eatery, or The Grinder, a nickname from the original Shoreliner Hotel on First Ave.
Carmen acquired the business in 2013 and renamed it The Ship and Plough Tavern. When questioned about the inspiration behind the name and concept of the establishment, he shared that he had frequented Gimli during his time in Winnipeg. Being fond of the town, he envisioned it as an ideal location to both reside and operate a business.
“I lived in England for a while, and I loved the Pub culture there. Pubs felt like family that were always there for you, and I envisioned such a place here,” said Carmen.
While considering becoming a business owner, Carmen came upon The Grinder, and his vision became more apparent. He purchased the establishment and considered the local area while coming up with a name. The entrepreneur wanted the name to be a natural fit for the community of fishermen and farmers. He also wanted to recreate the English Pub experience. Thus, the Ship and Plough was born.
Carmen also wanted to ensure that his business supported local businesses. He chose to use as many locally sourced products and services as possible. His vision was a business community that supported each other, much like the family feel of the English Pubs. To him, this meant fish provided by local fishermen, farm-to-table food options and Manitoba-crafted tap beers.
Carmen stated that “friends and neighbours supporting each other” parallels the importance of the pub experience.
The Ship and Plough is unique in that it offers a small-town Pub feel while simultaneously offering big-time entertainment. “Touring bands from all over Canada have played here,” Carmen explained. “Elliot Brood and Grapes of Wrath, to name a couple. I have artistic counterparts that have helped The Ship and Plough grow.”
As well, local talents such as Kate Ferris, Deborah Romeyn, Ledwynn, Tim Elias, Mike and Crystal, and Tracy Martin have been pivotal in bringing in music-loving patrons through the years. Carmen expanded the entertainment factor by adding comedy and drag shows, pub quizzes, and karaoke.
“It’s great to have a place to foster the talent of the community,” he said.
“It’s been a great 10 years, and I look forward to the next 10. I hope the Ship and Plough will carry on long after I am gone as a mainstay of the community.”
“I have great staff, and I always get terrific feedback. It is a success because of a wonderful team,” said Carmen.
Carmen marked his 50th birthday with a lively music show at the Ship and Plough, featuring Tracy Martin and her band.
Carmen welcomes you to check out the website and view the photo gallery curating the history of the Ship and Plough, and to subscribe to the newsletter to stay abreast of future shows and pub-related news.
Express Photos by Rayme Thomson
