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The History of the Oldest McDonald's

Oct 17, 2024

Notes on the Lecture about the Oldest McDonald's and Its History

Introduction

  • Located in Downey, California, the oldest McDonald's in the world.
  • Founded by Dick and Mac McDonald in 1948 in San Bernardino, California.
  • Downey location is the third McDonald's built and the oldest still standing.

Family History

  • Jason McDonald French is the grandson of Dick McDonald.
  • Growing up, the family kept their history a secret; children weren't allowed to talk about it.
  • The McDonald's empire, now with nearly 37,000 stores worldwide, largely stems from Dick and Mac McDonald, but Ray Kroc played a crucial role.

Ray Kroc's Involvement

  • Ray Kroc was a touchy subject in the family; he worked closely with the McDonald brothers.
  • The film "The Founder" portrays the story of the McDonald brothers and Ray Kroc, with Michael Keaton playing Kroc.
  • Kroc's introduction to the McDonald brothers came through his delivery of milkshake mixers in 1954, leading to their partnership.

Revolutionizing Fast Food

  • In 1948, the McDonald brothers introduced the "Speedy Service System", which was revolutionary for fast food.
  • Their system enabled fresh burgers to be served in 30 seconds.
  • This innovation changed the way fast food was perceived and consumed.
  • Kroc was impressed by their concept and sought to franchise it across the country.

Franchise Expansion

  • Kroc opened the first franchise McDonald's in Des Plaines, Illinois, in 1955.
  • He later founded the McDonald's Corporation.
  • Kroc's work ethic, drive, and vision were admired, despite later conflicts with the McDonald brothers.

Conflict with the McDonald Brothers

  • Kroc and the McDonald brothers had a feud over control of the company.
  • In 1961, Kroc bought the business and the rights to the name for $2.7 million.
  • Kroc's deal was controversial and worth over $100 billion today.

Legacy and Reflection

  • The term "founder" is debated; Kroc expanded the idea but may have overshadowed the original creators.
  • Jason McDonald French expresses pride in his grandfather's contribution to fast food.
  • Despite the handshake deal for royalties, the family claims they never received compensation from Kroc.
  • There's a sense of nostalgia for people who remember the original McDonald's story, and it holds deeper significance for Jason's family.

Conclusion

  • Jason McDonald French is pleased with the historical accuracy of the film and the recognition of the McDonald brothers' contributions to the fast food industry.

Full transcript