The Two Tars Tent was founded in 1971, and was one of the original ‘Oasis’ or ‘tents’ of the Sons of the Desert. The Two Tars Tent began as an informal group of people who loved the comedies of Laurel and Hardy as well as other movies, usually produced by the Hal Roach Studios where Laurel and Hardy made their best output.

At first, the group of fans met informally, in homes, showing movies on 16mm film, often produced by the Blackhawk home movie company. Soon the group grew too large for living rooms, and the Two Tars moved to a building owned by the Philadelphia Rifle Club and then to restaurants that could accommodate the growing crowd. This became especially important as the Two Tars began holding grand banquets, complete with live entertainment. Annual awards were given to renown members of the entertainment industry, both national and local stars.

A list of guest celebrities included stars such as Margaret Hamilton, Mae Questral, Spanky McFarland, and Soupy Sales. Local performers included Wee Willie Weber and Sally Star. Along with these annual awards, the Two Tars began collecting contributions at their banquets for charitable donations.

Every Two Tars banquet features films and food, and always has an official series of toasts to Stan and Ollie and their co-stars. We also rise and sing the theme song from The Sons of the Desert film. These shows are attended by Two Tars members, friends and families. Often, youngsters are introduced to the humor of Laurel and Hardy for the first time, and we all delight in hearing the uproarious laughter of the kids as they watch the antics of the comedy masters.