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[Peter B Wolf]

A Restaurant’s 75th Anniversary is not often celebrated in the United States. Here is one which needs to be noted with due respect.
The Student Prince and Fort Restaurant in Springfield Massachusetts. http://www.studentprince.com/

I personally can attest to this occasion as not only being there on the event, which was duely celebrated on the 24th of September this year 2010, but also as a former proud member of it’s staff. (Chef 1964-1969 and 1972-1980).

“The Prince” as it will always affectionally be referred to by me, was part of my fifty year carrier in the culinary world which I will not forget.

Many readers here may know and remember what an exceptionally and unique Restaurant this was and is. Basically considered a German Restaurant, with it’s true and original décor, not ‘Kitsch’, makes it outstanding in its own genre. Annually returning diverse typical German, but also international, “Fests” held with authentic food preparations and appropriate décor are known to draw large crowds of repeat customers, guests and friends.
eGullet’s own contributing original member Mr. Brown, was a native of Springfield, and the son of a local Insurance Agency owner, whom I personally knew.

To honor current and former employees, old time guests, clientele and friends of the Restaurant, the owners, children of the always remembered Rupprecht R. Scherff, Rudi R., Barbara and Peter, created a neat Newspaper “The Student Prints”, full of anecdotes all written by satisfied, and at time not so satisfied personnel and guests. Many pictures from way back then, authenticating a true life story not often duplicated.

The local media of Television and Newsprint were present to document the festivities, which were held at a small park adjacent to the “Prince”. Tents averted a possible inclement weather situation, typical German foods were served, German Beers flowed from tap and a ‘Umpah Band’ provided Gemuetlichkeit. (Jolly Kopperschmidts German Band). But the best was to see old friends again and note with amusement how old we all got.

To get an idea of the celebration and happenings during this September’ Anniversary please look at the provided links:

http://videos.massli...den_street.html

http://www.masslive....est_return.html

…………and:

http://www.gourmet.c...er-2008-release

The Restaurant Guide: “Time’s Tables” (page 77). Gourmet’s editors spent the past year selecting 20 legendary American restaurants that have stood the test of time and still serve great food: