Olean Historical & Preservation Society Newsletter
OLEAN HISTORICAL AND PRESERVATION SOCIETY
302 LAURENS STREET
OLEAN, NEW YORK 14760
NEWSLETTER, FALL OF 2008
HISTORY OF THE L'ALCOVE RESTAURANT
The L'Alcove at 920 N. Fourth Street in North Olean was informally opened in 1937, but it didn't open formerly until Butch Buchello secured a liquor license in 1938. When he opened the L'Alcove it had five tables and twenty chairs that he had purchased for two dollars a set from a bar owner who had been closed by the ABC Board. Although the chairs had now long been discarded, the five tables were still in use at the restaurant. Their only repairs having been linoleum covering and edging.
After Butch Buchello opened the Castle he closed the L'Alcove for about six months. Upon receiving many written complaints Butch reopened the L'Alcove, and planned a 25th anniversary ceremony at the Castle Restaurant on W. State Street.
Claiming the need for improved takeout facilities accounted for his decision to move the initial venture in his restaurant-motel-Italian food packing empire. Butch said that the L'Alcove held fond memories but it was inadequate and he had no plans for the old building.
In February of 1971 Butch stated that he was opening the L'Alcove in the building at the corner of N. Union and Wayne Streets. His plans were that the two houses that were also part of the deal, one directly behind the market and the other just north on N. Union St. were to be demolished to provide a 30-car parking lot. The two upper floors were to be torn down and only a shell would remain on the first floor which would be remodeled into a restaurant.
When completed in about four or five months, the new building would offer dining facilities enlarged from the present 78 to about 110, a much larger kitchen, restroom and bar areas. There would be an improved and stressed takeout service with separate entrance which would be located on the north side of the building with easy access to the parking lots. A stone, brick and wrought iron rustic Italian look featuring wine displays on the interior was to be featured with a stucco exterior.
The L'Alcove at the corner of Union and Wayne was demolished earlier this year and the construction of Tim Hortons is now completed.
DEDICATION SIGN TO GOVERNOR FRANK W. HIGGINS
At 10 a.m. Saturday morning, September 20, 2008, a dedication sign to Olean's former New York State Governor Frank W. Higgins was unveiled at the Bartlett House by Gov. Frank Higgins great-great-great-great grandson Zachary Spears, Gov. Higgins great-great-great granddaughter Tracy Spears, mother of Zachary. Also taking part in the ceremony were Cattaraugus County Legislator Steve Teachman, State Senator Cathy Young, County Legislature Crystal Abers, State Rep.Joseph Giglio and U. S. Representative John R. "Randy" Kuhl. Each gave a short comment just before the unveiling as did Mayor David Carucci, who after speaking had to leave the ceremony for another engagement.
Immediately following the unveiling all of those present spend considerable time visiting the Olean Point Museum and Grandma's Attic, both of which are located in the former carriage house at the rear of the Bartlett House.
This was followed by an informal gathering in the Bartlett House. The elegant dining room was the focal point of interest with a delicious array of food platters arranged on the table.
Hats off to Steve Teachman, who was the master of ceremonies and organizer of the dedication sign which will be placed at route 86 Olean's exit 26. He did a commendable job.
This would also be an appropriate time to say hats off also to members of the Olean Historical Society, Dave Deckman, also Director of the Bartlett House, Louise Koenig, Carl Timme, Kathy Sherburne, Barbara Chew and Eileen Smith, for their continuing dedication in keeping the history of Olean alive. Last but not least, many thanks to Bernie Pire and Betty Eaton for their many years of faithful dedication.
Olean Historical & Preservation Society Newsletter
