Thanksgiving 2006 was at Van Abel’s restaurant in Hollandtown for out group of 16. Thats right! Just walk right in, our table was reserved, and food was served family style. There were abundant waitresses and waiters so take care of us. The food selection was awesome. The best part? No dishes!
Van Abel’s is a “throwback” to the City Club in Plymouth. The large open area with wooden floors lent itself to long tables and lots of people. I couldn’t help remembering the last couple of years that my Grandma Myrna offered to hold Thanksgiving in the “side-room” of the City Club. The tavern was closed all day and I think opened at 6:00 PM to regualr customers. It was the late 1970’s and Myrna knew that she wouldn’t be able to offer to host Thanksgiving many more times.
The “Bucky and Alice Clan” came. We still have pictures. It was Alice and Ray, Myna and Chuck, Chuck and Shelby, Jack and Mary Ann, Addie and Ike, Jerry and Jayne. Of course there were grandchildren totaling 15. Everybody brought food and I think Myrna did the turkey in her big roaster. The food was put on tables and it was a cooperative effort.
There was always something special about the City Club being closed to customers. It was quiet. The grandkids could wander anywhere in the tavern and Myrna set the orthophonic music machine so that songs could be played by pushing the selection button (no money).
For kids, it was like exploring. Nothing was off limits. They could run and slide. They could dance to the music. They could play pool. They could walk behind the bar. They could do all the things that were normally off limits. I think soda was made available from all the coolers behind the bar. There was a kind of freedom.
As I remember the Thanksgivings at the City Club, I am stricken by the fact that they were one of the few times that my whole family consisting of Grandma (and Step Grandfather), Mother (and Step Dad), brothers and sisters with spouses, and nieces and nephews got together in one place and the same time. It was special. I don’t think anybody attached much significance to the gathering at the time. It marked the end of an era as The Andrews Family moved on and the business was sold. It was a time that was neither good or bad. Things were changing. It was a warm memory.
So I hope everyone had a special Thanksgiving. For me it was a reminder of Thanksgivings past! At the Club! In Plymouth! With my family! It will always be special.
Lots of Warm Hugs
Dad