The Beginings 1957
Original Logo - 1957
This was replicated into signs of the original concept stores.
In 1958 a new logo was used on everything from cups to french fry bags. Even as logos were changed and the "Chef" was made younger in 1962, this logo was still included on the front of all coffee machines through the 70's.
When Grate Signs created the large street signs, they used a very simular "Chef" to this original Chef. Seen below, left 1st sign chef, right one used throughtout 60's until moved to the center of sign and made younger.
below, The Original concept stores had some what of a consistant look, notice the signs attached to the buildings.
The signs read "Broiled Burgers" and "Thick Shakes" 19 cents, being that hamburgers were 15 cents in 1958, I am guessing that 19 cents bought both in 1957.
The above pictures are: top, the Original Store at 6170 N. Keystone Ave, Indianapolis IN. top right is the third store at 115 Vaughn St, Madison IN.
The 1st store opened May 1957, the 2nd store opened Jun/Jul 1957 and the 3rd opened Aug 1957. The second location was in Kokomo, IN.
Sept 12, 2009, Madison store still in operation as a
restaurant. The walk up ording windows are still visible.
They enclosed the open air picnic area long ago.
Front view
A whole lot is still original 1957.
In the concrete below the sign was written Aug, 8, 1957.
Below is the view from the street, accross the street is the Ohio River, and boat ramps.
It is great that this building has survived, this was the beginings of what would become Burger Chef Restaurants!
Following photo's from the book "Lost Indianapolis" 2002, written by John P. McDonald.
These photos are NOT in the newest book from Scott Sanders -
Only known photo of the 1st Burger Chef - 1958
1300 W. 16th Street, Indianapolis
The bc head quarters was built next door at 1348.
Both have been torn down.
Spring 1958
Unknown to what extent the store was remodeled over the years or when/if it was closed prior to the sell to Hardees' ?
Above is a photo from Dale Hopewell, I believe it is the first BC at 1300 W. 16th St., Indianapolis IN. Spring 1958.
Look and compare the concept drawing, and the book photo of the first store. By the end of the year, so many minor
changes were already made and continued through out the first 200 stores.
Also from the book "Lost Indianapolis"
One of the first eight bc's this one is in
LaFayette, Indiana on Bypass road 52.
Notice the consistant look achieved by the end of the year 1958.
About 1962 (about 200 stores later) the lighted panels were added to the roof line and top sign and the colors were reversed on the center oval on top of building, 1963 the permament enclosures were added to the front for confort from the elements, and the lighted panels were added down the sides of the buildings.
