Anyone want to join me here for a Big Chief, french fries and a cherry Coke? If we only could. OK…I’m dating myself by posting this but I knew a few people will get a kick out of it. It’s the only photo on this site that I haven’t take myself…so far at least…but I thought it was worth it. A friend of mine gave it to me last year. Of course it’s the famous Tee Pee restaurant that operated from the 1940′s through the 1970′s at the NW corner of 38th Street and Fall Creek Boulevard. The building I’m told was finally demolished in 1988. From the look of the cars, I think this photo was taken around 1970…or close to then.
I’m unsure of the reason why the owners felt compelled to leave that location. I’m sure it was probably a good reason that made sense at the time. But I’m fairly confident that if the Tee Pee were still there now, it would be doing a brisk business still…like it always did. It’s such a strategic corner location with an incredible amount of drive-by traffic. Sometimes change brings needed improvements and a fresh perspective. But in this case, what was gained? More parking spots that no one will ever use in the far corner of the State Fairgrounds parking lot? Here’s a shot below of this same location as it appears today. Looks kind of lonely now don’t you think?
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Hi,
I used to work at the Tee Pee outside & in. This is the first pic I’ve come across. Thanks! And I’m in agreement. The Tee Pee should still be there.
I remember backing into the curb-service area by the rear fence…and waitresses came out to the car to serve you. Judy, you may have waited on me and a car-load of my friends years ago? You don’t see curb-service like that anywhere now that I know of. Part of the Tee Pee mystique. The Tee Pee was a great family restaurant by morning through the evening…and then turned into one of the most popular hotspots in town for young people at night. In it’s day it was THE place to see and be seen. Everyone cruised the Tee Pee…showing off their cars, waving to friends and flirting with strangers.