On September 30, 1959, the first McDonald's Restuarant in North Carolina opened at 1101 Summit Avenue, at the intersection of Bessemer Avenue, in East Greensboro. Here is a photo of the store, still in the same location, fifty one years later. This store was opened by two WWII veterans back when the chain had less than 500 stores and hamburgers were a mere 15 cents. In our visit to North Carolina's oldest McDonald's, we must admit we were mightily impressed. The facility was completely renovated and spotless. Also, from the senior-citizen cleaning the dining area to the friendly and efficient cashiers, everyone seemed proud to work there. We were in and out in less than four minutes during a busy breakfast rush. We marveled at the woman who waited on us. Completely bilingual, she "just knew" whether to take an order in Spanish or English. For a nostalgic moment, stop in and order a burger, shake, and fries-- just like old times.
Another big event for Greensboro in 1959 was that local journalist Edward R Murrow interviewed Fidel Castro that year! Also in 1959, superintendent of the Greensoboro City Schools, Benjamin Lee Smith, wrote a paper, The Story of Desegregation in Greensboro. Wendover Avenue did not exist and Summit and Bessemer Avenues were main thoroughfares in and around our city. This McDonald's was opened in a prime real estate location.
Finally, we offer this photo for Skywatch Friday to be viewed around the world by this network of 300+ folks who are as proud of their sky photos as Ronald McDonald is of this store! By the way, curiously, in the winter, seagulls like to hang out near this McDonald's-- some 200+ miles from the ocean! We managed to slip one into this photograph. Do you see him, above the clouds, directly above the flag pole?
NOW! It's about to be LUNCH time and that NAME makes my hunger go out of control! Nice colorful shot!
Posted by: Kcalpesh | Friday, March 26, 2010 at 03:05 AM
You remind me of first McDonald's restaurant in Moscow. It was opened in 1990. After 70 years of Soviet life it was like a miracle, delicious food (yes, now I know all the damage:-))), smiling salespeople, bright and beautiful interiors. We stood in line for two-three hours. Once I saw in the queue a wealthy businessman, who invited his girlfriend to a restaurant and was very proud of him. Plus, I was 20 years younger. Good times. Thank you for reminding me.
Posted by: Irina | Friday, March 26, 2010 at 03:19 AM
Nice bit of history! :) I read your blog on sisterly love as well; that's a very beautiful capture.
And the seagull looks regal almost, flying high above everything else!
Posted by: louise | Friday, March 26, 2010 at 07:03 AM
As we look back over the Skywatch Friday shots, we feel like proud parents! Thank you Skywatch Friday team for starting the idea of taking time to look up and appreciate the sky around us on Friday! Readers, if you have a chance, take a quick stroll through our Skywatch Friday photos here. We'd love to know if you have a personal favorite!
Jan
GDP
http://www.greensborodailyphoto.com/skywatch-friday/
Posted by: Greensboro Daily Photo | Friday, March 26, 2010 at 07:24 AM
fancy that...a mc d's going into the hall of fame lol.
Posted by: shelle @ fairdinks | Friday, March 26, 2010 at 04:25 PM
What a pretty Spring day at the Micky Ds! Yep those darn Seagulls are the scavengers of the earth , no bit to small or stale for them!
Posted by: Janis | Friday, March 26, 2010 at 10:22 PM
Americana, classic. :)
I'd love to have that meal you suggest.
Posted by: Dina | Saturday, March 27, 2010 at 05:51 AM
Terrific Americana composition!
Love the sky, the colorful McDonalds, the flag.
LL
Posted by: Lori Lynn | Saturday, March 27, 2010 at 05:42 PM
Interesting ... the original McDonald's here in our area is a bit of a historic spot too. BEAUTIFUL skies ;-)
Hugs and blessings,
Posted by: happilyretired | Saturday, March 27, 2010 at 09:48 PM