According @TerpsRecruiting, John Brown, the founder and longtime owner of the popular College Park establishment RJ Bentley’s, has passed away.
Brown opened Bentley’s in 1978, transforming it from a small college bar into a beloved community landmark that generations of University of Maryland students and College Park residents have embraced over the decades.
According to its website, “The building chosen to house R.J. Bentley’s “Filling Station” was originally a 1920 gas station known as College Park Auto Place and sat on the main drag in College Park.
In 1956, a Hudson dealership stepped in and with College Park Auto Place, continued service on the East Coast’s arterial highway Route 1.
In 1978, R.J. Bentley’s Filling Station was founded as a welcoming “roadhouse” for College Park residents and returning alumni. The interior was decorated with antique automobile accessories and license plates from around the country.”
Tragic news out of College Park, as RJ Bentley’s Founder and Owner John Brown has passed away. John opened Bents in 1978, and it has been a staple in College Park ever since. So many great memories there of the years. Rest in Peace John.
“Let’s go to Bents” – @notthefakeSVP pic.twitter.com/hbB146B7td
— Terps Recruiting (@TerpRecruiting) November 10, 2024