History Loves Volunteers

This massive photo hangs in our No.5 Bistro and Bar area and is definitely the prompt of many a conversation. What is pictured is Lamy’s Manufacturing Auxillary Red Cross volunteers along with historic treasures in the background. What do we know?

Europe was thrown into conflict in June 1914. At the beginning of the war we now call World War One, the American Red Cross was a small organization still in the process of developing its identity and programs. When the United States declared war against Germany on April 6, 1917, the organization began a period of extraordinary growth. By the time the war ended in November 1918, the Red Cross had become a major national humanitarian organization.

The women that stand in front of this building were employees of Lamy’s, mostly seamstresses, and spent their time volunteering as needed during World War One. If you’re grabbing a bite to eat, take a look at this picture up close and personal. You’ll notice the sign reads, “Helpful Widows and Orphans of our Allies.”

Directly behind these ladies sit the C. H. Heynen Monument Company. Today, this spot is our featured outdoor patio. What makes this piece extra rich in family history is that it has sat on the desk of the current owner, John Swearingen, his father, and his grandfather. I guess it’s true what they say around here–history loves company.

Volunteers Love Downtime

While we know during the middle of war these women probably didn’t spend their off time soaking in a tub surrounded by candlelight, sipping wine–a gal can still imagine, right? Luckily in 2021, we don’t have to imagine this downtime. These days, you can lunch with leisure at our Ox Horn Market, right below where these very women used to work.

The Caprese Salad is a fan favorite featuring Heirloom tomatoes, Burrata cheese, Herb Oil, and flakey salt. Not a salad, fan, check out the rest of our menu. While you’re waiting on your lunch to be made, take the time to shop the market. We know there’s something for anyone on your list. Or, treat-yo-self. After all, this is your lunch of leisure.

See you at Lamy’s where history loves company.