Images(6)

Basket, Fry

Object number2021.55.9

Date1960-2022

MediumMetal; Rubber(?) or Vinyl(?)

Credit LineGift of Simon Family

DescriptionChrome metal fry basket. Rectangular basket with metal grid walls. Front end has double metal rounded hook. Underside has teardrop-shaped metal support that extends up to handle. Back side has four-armed handle with looped end covered in green rubber(?) or vinyl(?) heat-resistant material. DimensionsHeight x Width x Depth: 12.25 x 6 x 25 in. (31.1 x 15.2 x 63.5 cm)
MarksBack of handle has engraved text on middle crossbar "778-P" and on bottom crossbar "10-01".
Historical NotesPart of a collection from The Original Hot Dog Shop chain. The original restaurant opened in 1960 and was located in the Oakland neighborhood of Pittsburgh. It closed in April 2020. At one point there were locations in Plum, Monroeville, Penn Hills, the South SIde, Carnegie Mellon University (1996-2006,) and Falls Church, Virginia. This sign is from the Oakland location. Donor Terry Campasano owned the restaurant along with her brother Bruce Simon. “The O” was an Oakland institution best known for their fries cooked in peanut oil. Several food documentaries and lists featured the O for their famous hot dogs and fries. They closed the doors to the original shop in April of 2020 after 60 years. Sitting at the corner of Forbes and South Bouquet Streets, "The O" opened in 1960 by brothers Sydney and Morris Simon. Sydney eventually took over as sole owner until his passing in 2009. His children Terry and Bruce then took over.

Related institution The Original Hot Dog Shop (1960 - 2020)

Related institution Carnegie Mellon University

Previous owner Terry Campasano

Previous owner Bruce Simon

Related person Sydney Simon (died 2009)

Related person Morris Simon

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