Dear Editor,
The Hilltop Restaurant began almost at the beginning of the town of Quinwood. It was known for its hot dogs and was centered in the middle of town and became a respite for miners and their families. It was run by Xerxie McClung, then by his son, Raymond, and then by his grandson, Raymond Jr.
Covid closed the restaurant down never to be reopened. Many in the community felt its absence, and reunions will never be the same. I just wanted others who have seen their small towns lose a big part of their community to know that they are not alone.
Few things in life brings joy to so many
So let me take you back for what we got for one penny
The display of candy gave our lives joy
And it did not matter if you were girl or boy
The community Elders gathered in the middle of town
At the Hilltop Restaurant for a gossip sit down
The food was delicious, the company great
As they talked morning to night as they sat there and ate
Xerxie McClung and his son, Raymond Senior
Could be found there every day keeping an eye on the door
The room was filled with electronic delights
Pin ball and jukebox were wonderful sights
For you see in this town built up on coal
Where families were poor but had food for their souls
Needed this haven to gather around
Right in the middle each family was bound
Bound to each other as neighbor and friend
We knew that this coal town had to depend
Depend on the business of each small store
Knowing that at times some needed much more
The Hilltop Restaurant run by Xerxie McClung
Gave to this community where many stories have sprung
Stories of morning coffee and breakfast for many
Chili dogs and hamburgers and candy for a penny
From Father to son to grandchild it was run
It gave its last offering till it had none
Covid-19 took this treasure away
A sadness we all felt throughout till this day
Our parents and theirs had a bond with this store
Just as we have it will live evermore
Evermore in the minds of those that walked in
And found in these people a long lost friend
So we must say goodbye to This Restaurant
Though it breaks our hearts to a certain extent
We will always remember all the great times
When we dug in our pockets for our nickels and dimes
When a quarter could buy a hot dog and drink
When a penny could make you stop and think
Of the choices you must make for that copper one cent
Back in the days when we knew what it meant
To Ramie or Raymond Jr. for those of us here
We still get to see that wonderful cheer
The smile that helped many over the years
As you ran The Restaurant we all held so dear!!!
By Sammy J. Pomeroy
Quinwood, W.Va.
