[Congressional Record Volume 161, Number 74 (Thursday, May 14, 2015)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E711]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  THE WUNSCHE BROTHERS CAFE AND SALOON

                                  _____
                                 

                              HON. TED POE

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 14, 2015

  Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, located just off the railroad tracks 
in Old Town Spring, Texas, sits a quaint cafe. But this is no ordinary 
joint. The Wunsche Brothers Cafe and Saloon has been around since 1902. 
The cafe fries up great American classics like burgers, fries, onion 
rings, chicken-fried steak, basically all the makings for a post-lunch 
nap.
  It originally opened its doors as a hotel and saloon, but the cafe 
has stayed in business for over 100 years.
  Wunsche Cafe has morphed into a community icon and is somewhat of a 
local legend. It even attracts out-of-towners, why? Because it's 
haunted.
  It's said that the original owner, Charlie Wunsche, roams the 
restaurant, pranking workers. A little mischievous, but good natured, 
the spirit of Charlie hides items, messes with electronics and 
employees and is even said to have been spotted.
  Charlie, I'm sure, is just watching over his business, wanting to 
make sure it serves its customers well, who can blame him?
  Sadly the century old cafe suffered a mishap recently. The newest 
addition to the Wunsche Brother's Cafe burst into flames in the early 
morning hours. The flames engulfed the cafe, however thankfully there 
were no injuries reported.
  But here is where the story gets interesting, or maybe a little 
spooky, the original wooden, 1900's structure only sustained smoke 
damage (that's the part that is haunted). The new additions, put into 
place around the mid 80's, suffered the most destruction. The historic 
foundation still stands strong, showing the community that amongst the 
piles of soot and insulation, there is hope.
  The cafe's new owner, Nathan Lavaige, has remained firm in his 
promise that they will rebuild. It will keep on standing, making 
delicious meals for Texans and tourists from all over. Haunted or not, 
someone was watching over the cafe in those early morning hours. I am 
more inclined to think it was Charlie, but we will never know.
  Thanks to the Wunsche Brothers Cafe for 113 years of serving up 
comfort food to hungry customers and here's to the next 113 years. Best 
wishes in the rebuild. The Houston community cannot wait until the cafe 
reopens.
  And that's just the way it is.

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