Saturday, Emporia’s McDonald’s at West Sixth Avenue took a trip back in time to the 1970s to commemorate a very special milestone.
That milestone was the 50th anniversary of McDonald’s existence in Emporia as in 1975, the O’Reilly family opened the very first location in the community. During Saturday’s celebration, current owner Hugh O’Reilly Jr, who was just 13 at the time of that opening, called it one of the proudest moments he can recall over the last 50 years.
In addition to bringing a sense of pride, O’Reilly says it is very sobering when he thinks about this longevity, noting that not all businesses or chains ever get an opportunity to celebrate such an occasion. When it comes to their success in Emporia, O’Reilly attributes it to two things: the McDonald’s name and the quality of people who have joined and led their team over the years.
Store Manager Jessica Harris has been with the business for over 30 years and says that for her, the people she works with are a big reason why she has stayed so long.
O’Reilly also took time to thank the city of Emporia for its support over the years and says he is excited for what the next 50 years will bring. In addition to the food deals and giveaways, patrons were also able to take photos and interact with two of McDonald’s most famous characters, the Hamburgler and Grimace.
Photo by Tagan Trahoon/KVOE News.
