Today's entry in the blog brings us downtown, to the Loop. But this isn't just any ordinary store on the Loop. No, this is the McDonald's at 230 S. State St. And here is why that is such a big deal: it has a dual theme. The first floor of the establishment is a tribute to the city's storied sports history, featuring various posters and other pieces of memorablia(more than just one piece featuring Michael Jordan. However, that is not all. After you get your food, you have the option of going up to the second floor. Do that, and you'll come face to face with Reflections of the Civil Rights Movement, a pictorial tribute to the career of Dr. King. There are all sorts of items there in relation to the movement, and also a pictorial board depicting the life and times of Cirilo McSween. Born in Panama in 1926, he was a member of the Panamanian Olympic Track and Field Team before going to work for New York Life Insurance Company(where he was their first Black sales agent). He also was a participant in the Civil Rights Movement. His prowess in the field of insurance led him to eventually acquiring 11 McDonald's franchises. Finally, in 2005, he renovated his State Street location to have the second floor tell the story of the Civil Rights Movement. So, the next time you're downtown and want a bite to eat, stop in at the McDonald's at 230 S. State to eat--and learn.
P.S. I took some pictures when I went to this place, and they can be found on the Chicago 365 Facebook page.
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