Auburndale Restaurant Provides History Lesson

News-Chief Staff Writer

AUBURNDALE - Guests at Allen's Seafood Restaurant, on U.S. 92, not only receive, a unique dining experience but a lesson in Polk County history as well.

Hundreds of early American antiques, many of which date back to the Civil War era, are displayed on the walls in the three dining rooms, which are set in traditional western saloon fashion.

A native of Auburndale, Allen has been an antique collector most of his life, obtaining many of the invaluable items from numerous donors throughout the county and the United States. He has become a recognized authority on Polk County history through taped interviews with persons who have first-hand knowledge of the early pioneer days.

The recipient of many service to mankind awards, Allen was recently named "Florida's Number One Cracker" by the Hernando County Sertoma Club.

"I try not to give my customers just another place to eat," Allen explained, "but a place where one can reminisce while taking a giant step back into the past." Visitors to the restaurant, which features Florida seafood, deep fried rabbit and a complete rattlesnake dinner, will find Allen and his wife dress in authentic western apparel and create a friendly, homely atmosphere that, Allen contends has become a lost art in today's modern society.

Dedicated to preserving and practicing the freedoms of individuals of olden days, Allen said he has been enlightened by an apparent trend among the younger generation in recent years to return to things of the past.

"This is a part of America that somehow, we have lost," he said.

Allen's collection is not just American artifacts however. The first European padlock used during the Dark Ages in ,England and brass palace keys are among the rarest items.

Diamond and gold scales, enclosed in glass containers, and which were recently on display on the Freedom Train, may also be found at Allen's famous restaurant. Rare glass collections are displayed in a front dining area along with the locks and keys from the first county jail in Bartow.

Though having had numerous requests from museums throughout the state for various items, Allen said he has retained most of his collection.

Plans for an authentic country store, containing merchandise displayed much in the fashion as found in the 1800's, are currently being considered. Allen said the store will be located adjacent to the restaurant and will also be free of charge.

Allen also hopes to publish a book, "Roots Grow Deep Into This Sand,", which will depict life in Polk County from Civil War days to the present.