Atlanta's Palms Grill-- Part 2-- Max Baer's Visit

An Interesting Story

Max Baer, the newly-crowned world heavy weight boxer (and father of Jethro on the Beverly Hillbillies) came through town August 12, 1934, and the other people in his car went inside the Palms and ordered breakfast. Baer remained sleeping in the car.

The others returned with a bottle of milk and awakened Mr. Baer, who went inside jusrt as Mrs. Tina Shifflet, the cook, had taken several pies out of the oven. Baer ordered a piece of coconut pie. After enjoying it, Baer walked back to the kitchen and tipped each person a dollar, saying to Mrs. Shifflet, "My gosh, woman, that's the best pie I ever ate," then left. (From the Atlanta Argus)

Kind of made their day I would suppose.

The Palms was also the designated Greyhound stop in January 1940. On the bottom of the neon sign was a small light that was turned on if there was someone wanting to board.

The Grill continued as a popular place in the 40s and 50s. It closed in the late 60s and was empty for nearly 20 years. In 2002, the family of the owner donated it to the Atlanta Public Library and Museum. In 2003, a restoration project was begun and it is open again through lots of effort.

Definitely a repeat visit for Liz and myself from now on. Great food, and talk about a trip back to the 30s and 40s. Pictures of the place from back then and now reveals a near identical restaurant, down to the tables, silverware and floors.

Thank you for this great story Mr. Thomas.

Check out www.atlantaillinois.org for more information.

Now, If They Could Just Do Something With That Silly Water Tower!! --RoadDog