By Terry Ward
Bill Mooneyhan Sr. was a civic catalyst for the City of West Columbia. He envisioned the historic Brookland City Hall, a place where his kin before him had served for decades, as a potential museum.
The building, at 430 Center St., has been transformed into the highly successful Savage Craft Ale Works, a showplace and regional draw to a bustling West Columbia River District.
Sunday, a year to the day of Bill’s unexpected death, the second-floor private meeting room of Savage Craft Ale works was dedicated to Bill.
The Mooneyhan Room was dedicated to the memory of William “Bill” Mooneyhan.
A plaque will be placed on the wall. It reads: His love for the history of this building and his community will be unmatched by any. Presented to the Mooneyhan Family on February 27, 2022 on behalf of a grateful Savage Craft Ale Works and the West Columbia community.
After the plaque was presented, a toast was raised in Bill’s honor.
“Everyone who knew Bill, knew of his love for the City of West Columbia and its history,” said Steve Cohen, an organizer of Sunday’s gathering that was attended by Bill’s family and friends. “He is still in our heart and in our memory,” Cohen said.
Bill’s widow, Laura Mooneyhan said ” I know he loved all of you and he loved West Columbia. He would be proud.”
In addition to Laura, Bill’s children, Charlene, Emily, Michelle and Bill Jr., along with Bill’s grandson, David were on hand for the naming ceremony. US Rep. Joe Wilson, West Columbia City Councilman Joseph Dickey, and Cayce City Councilman and C-WC Chamber President Tim James attended the event.
