In the 1960s, Tillamook's dairy farmers disagreed so strongly about the direction of their cooperative that they launched a six-year battle featuring personal attacks, skullduggery and multiple lawsuits. By the end of the "cheese war" in 1968, the foundation had been set for the world-famous Tillamook cheese we know today. Author Marilyn Milne documents the fight in her book Cheese War. Marilyn will also explain Washington County's "milk war" of the 1920s. And she'll recommend cheeses to go with McMenamins beers! 

Marilyn Milne grew up on a Tillamook dairy farm and witnessed the "Cheese War" first-hand. She is a retired public relations professional. She co-authored Cheese War, published in 2022 by Oregon State University Press, with her late sister, Linda Kirk. 

Enjoy 15% off your hotel stay on History Pub nights! Show your ticket at check-in.

These events are open to everyone interested in Pacific Northwest history, and beyond! Often co-sponsored by local or state historical and civic organizations, we bring you experts, scholars, first-person experiencers, historians and documentaries expounding on topics from indigenous history to the birth of Portland, early explorers to hop growing, and on and on! It's like being back in the classroom - except this time you get to settle into comfortable seats and enjoy a drink or two with dinner while you listen and learn.

This event is eligible for a History Pub Stamp