Well, I suppose time takes its toll on all businesses, but I have to say that I was sad to see a local eatery icon, the Barbara Fritchie Restaurant – just outside of Frederick, Md – permanently shut its doors as of the first of this year.

The restaurant had been serving customers in some form or fashion (and at various addresses) since 1910, and its familiar candy-cane sign was well known at its Route 40 location, just west of the once famous “Golden Mile” in Frederick (a retail juggernaut whose glory days are also behind it).  It served good ol’ American comfort food.  Diner food.  Tuna melts and vegetable soup.  A slab of meatloaf with two sides or eggs over easy with bacon and toast.  Nothing fancy, but always reliable.

Alas, the addition of interstate 70, the endless dining options available locally, changing demographics, and upkeep and operational costs all conspired to end its 107-year run.

I had been to Barbara Fritchie’s many times growing up, visiting with both my parents and grandparents.  As a kid, I remember fondly doodling on my placemat with a crayon, their thick milkshakes, and finally getting to sit at the counter (once I was old enough).

Later, I fondly recall lunches with my grandfather during my college years.  We’d sit in a booth, watch the traffic go by out of the large front windows, and just talk.  He’s drink coffee from those thick, white mugs that are synonymous with all neighborhood diners as I devoured their huge club sandwiches.

During my time living in Florida, I introduced my wife and daughters to the wonders of Barbara Fritchie as we made the trip back to Clear Spring from the DC and Baltimore airports on family visits.  My own girls grew to love their world-famous noodle soup, large pieces of pie, and selection of ‘Hershey’s’ ice creams.  “Can we stop at the candy cane place?” they would say as we journeyed westward over Braddock mountain.  Of course we can.

It’s hard to get agreement on where to eat when you have three ladies in the car, but we never had a problem stopping at Barbara Fritchie’s.  There was something for everyone.  Not only that, but as a family, we seemed to talk to each other there more than at any other restaurant.  It was the kind of place where conversation came easy.  The room was always buzzing with stories.

If that counter or those booths could talk, what kind of tales could they tell?

I’ll always look at that candy cane sign outside and smile as I am driving by.  The warm and comforting memories made there will always be with me.

Still – I will miss you, Barbara Fritchie.

 

Do you have fond memories of Barbara Fritchie’s?  Tell me about them in the comments below!