[Congressional Record Volume 140, Number 144 (Thursday, October 6, 1994)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]


[Congressional Record: October 6, 1994]
From the Congressional Record Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]

 
                  THE DEMISE OF AN AUSTIN INSTITUTION

                                 ______


                            HON. J.J. PICKLE

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, October 6, 1994

  Mr. PICKLE. Mr. Speaker, the Nighthawk, one of the favorite eateries 
of my city, has called it quits after more than 60 years. The Nighthawk 
not only provided good food and a comfortable atmosphere at an 
affordable price, but it served as a political, economic, and cultural 
center for all of Austin, and indeed, for all of Texas. As much history 
has been made at the Nighthawk as at the University of Texas or the 
capitol. It was the centerpiece of political and civic activities for 
Texans.
  The original Nighthawk Restaurant opened for business on Christmas 
Eve way back in 1932. It was begun by a man named Harry Akin, who got 
his start in the business selling bottled apple cider on Congress 
Avenue in downtown Austin. The early success of the first Nighthawk 
prompted him to open a second barely a year later. At the peak of its 
popularity, the Nighthawk chain boasted seven restaurants in Austin, 
San Antonio, and Houston. Numerous requests for takeout food even 
spawned a line of frozen foods, which are more popular now than ever. 
The plant in nearby Buda, TX today generates 25,000 meals daily for 
sale nationwide.
  During its prime, the Nighthawk was frequented by numerous business 
and civic leaders of Austin, including President Lyndon Johnson. A 
great deal of business was conducted in those booths, and a great deal 
of apple pie was consumed. Through it all, however, the Nighthawk never 
lost its friendly, neighborhood style. It was the kind of place where 
you could meet for a quick lunch, take a date for some home-cooking, or 
just relax with friends and family.
  In those 60 years, I don't believe I ever had a bad meal at the 
Nighthawk. When I look back at the good times I shared there with 
others, I feel almost as if I have lost a dear friend. For many of us 
who make our home in Austin, that restaurant was as much a public 
institution as the capitol. The town won't be the same without it.
  It's unfortunate when tradition is unbalanced by economics. But I 
believe one of the first things I'll do when I get back to Austin this 
fall is call some of those old friends over to share a piece of apple 
pie, and remember the Nighthawk Restraurant.

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