Celebrating the Legacy of Ed and Mary Etta Moose: A Lasting Impact on St. Anthony Foundation and the Community

September 19, 2024

Ed and Mary Etta Moose, longtime supporters and donors of St. Anthony Foundation, left a profound impact on the San Francisco community and beyond. Their generous spirit, community-focused values, and dedication to helping those in need have left a legacy that continues to resonate, particularly through the creation of the beloved annual Penny Pitch fundraiser.

A Journey to San Francisco
Ed and Mary Etta Moose’s journey to San Francisco began in the heart of the Midwest. Both originally from St. Louis, Missouri, they were drawn to the vibrant, eclectic culture of San Francisco. Ed Moose first arrived in the city in the early 1960s. Captivated by its beauty and potential, he invited Mary Etta to join him, suggesting she belonged in San Francisco. Inspired by his invitation and the promise of a new adventure, Mary Etta packed her belongings and moved west, embracing the city’s charm and opportunity.

In San Francisco, Ed and Mary Etta quickly immersed themselves in the community. Ed, who had a background in psychiatric social work and had tried to become a Jesuit, brought with him a deep sense of purpose and a commitment to making the world a better place. His charismatic personality and philosophical outlook helped him form connections and forge friendships easily. Mary Etta, known for her infectious good nature and laugh, was equally well-regarded. Together, they became a dynamic duo, both in their personal lives and in their professional endeavors.

The Birth of a San Francisco Institution
In the 1970s, Ed and Mary Etta, along with their business partner Sam Deitsch, decided to open a restaurant that would become one of North Beach’s most iconic gathering places—the Washington Square Bar & Grill. Known affectionately as “The Square” or “The Washbag,” this establishment quickly became a hotspot for politicians, writers, artists, and lovers of jazz, embodying the lively and inclusive spirit of the city. The restaurant’s success was not just in its delicious food and vibrant atmosphere but also in its role as a social hub where diverse groups of people could connect and share ideas.

After the success of The Square, the Mooses opened another beloved establishment, Moose’s, across the park in 1992. Both restaurants became central to San Francisco’s social scene, attracting everyone from local regulars to international celebrities. However, it was not just their entrepreneurial spirit that made Ed and Mary Etta stand out; it was their deep-rooted commitment to their community and their desire to use their success to benefit others.

Creating the Penny Pitch and Supporting St. Anthony Foundation
In 1977, Ed Moose, in partnership with another restaurant owner, came up with the idea of a penny pitch—a fun, community event to foster relationships among local businesses. Recognizing an opportunity to give back, Ed transformed the event into a fundraiser for St. Anthony Foundation, a cause close to his and Mary Etta’s hearts. St. Anthony Foundation, which serves San Francisco’s homeless and low-income populations, resonated with the Mooses’ values of community and charity. The first Penny Pitch event took place on Washington’s Birthday in 1977, drawing huge crowds and enthusiastic participants from all walks of life, including local sports teams, civic leaders, and celebrities.

The Penny Pitch quickly became a beloved tradition, moving over the years to various locations but always maintaining its spirit of fun and charity. To date, the event has raised nearly $1 million for St. Anthony Foundation, making it one of the organization’s most successful and enduring fundraisers. Ed and Mary Etta’s commitment to St. Anthony Foundation went beyond the Penny Pitch; they were known as “quiet supporters,” offering their restaurant space for various charitable events and frequently giving generously to the causes they cared about. Their support was personal and heartfelt, rooted in a genuine desire to make a positive impact.

A Legacy of Generosity and Compassion
Ed and Mary Etta Moose were more than restaurateurs; they were pillars of their community, known for their warmth, generosity, and unflagging support for those in need. Whether hosting fundraisers at their establishments, supporting local politicians, or simply offering a listening ear to those who worked for them, the Mooses embodied the values of community and service. Their restaurants were not just places to eat but spaces where people gathered, connected, and found common ground.

As we remember Ed and Mary Etta Moose, we honor not only their contributions to St. Anthony Foundation but also their broader impact on the San Francisco community. Their legacy lives on through the Penny Pitch and the countless lives they touched with their kindness and generosity. St. Anthony Foundation is deeply grateful for their support, and we are committed to continuing their legacy of service, community, and compassion.

Please join us at this year’s Penny Pitch as we celebrate the Mooses’ enduring legacy and continue the tradition of giving back to our neighbors in need. It is a fitting tribute to two individuals who made such a meaningful difference in the lives of so many.