Opened in November 2005, the Shaskeen was the creation of traditional Irish musician and pub owner, Tommy McCarthy, and world-renowned flutist of the Chieftains, Matt Molloy. Bringing together the traditional Irish concepts of public houses, food, and music under one roof, the Shaskeen follows a lineage of great Irish pubs established by Tommy and Matt, such as the Burren and Matt Molloy’s. The Pub was purchased from the original owners by three friends with a dream to give the city and state a place that provides world-class entertainment and still somehow feels like home. Owners Josh Ames, Jim Pliakos, and Nathan Sheridan strengthened by the history of the Pub added their personalities started to make it something which had not existed in the city of Manchester. While Josh had been at The Shaskeen as a manager since the doors had opened in 2005. Having partners he found he could focus on musical acts and helping create and support local music scenes and bring in world-class acts. Acts that might have never come to the state of New Hampshire otherwise such as Multiple members of Wu-Tang Clan, KRS-One, Mobb Deep, Tim Barry, Dead Prez, Mýa and soo many more! Nathan took charge of the kitchen helping curate a menu of traditional and fusion Irish Pub Food. Created charity events such as the Best Worst Golf Tournament which has been going for ten years strong as of 2020 has generated over a hundred thousand dollars for the Children's Hospital at Dartmouth-Hitchcock.
2015 found the pub family expanding. With the departure of Nathan to strike out on his own. The three friends decided to offer two long time employees Neal Brown and Michael Graton an opportunity to help shape the future of the pub by becoming partners in its ownership. Neal bringing his wealth of cocktails and leadership to the table. While local musician Michael booked local artists and took charge of the kitchen. Year after year The Pub has been recognized for The Hippos Presses Best of the Best. Highlighting the Pubs Comedy nights, Musical acts, and Trivia nights. The Pub still offers Traditional Weekly Irish music weekly. For the heart of the pub will always be that of Ireland with its long-standing commitment to the community. The Shaskeen is a family, so come in for a drink or something to eat and you'll find a friendly face who is welcoming you home. We will keep a bar stool open for you.
