The 1980s brought continued success to Log Cabin and further honors for Edna Williams, who continued operating the landmark business into her late 80s.
In 1980, Edna Williams received an honorary degree from Our Lady of the Elms College in Chicopee at its commencement ceremony.
The story of the success of the Log Cabin is one of quality fresh foods, never frozen or canned, skillfully prepared, and a welcoming ambience. Edna Williams played a significant role in welcoming and conversing with diners. Her restaurant was an extension of her kitchen, and customers were treated like family.
Additionally, a major contributor to the restaurant's longevity was its manager, Frank MacAvin, who was associated with the Log Cabin since 1953. Mr. MacAvin was recommended to Mrs. Williams by Judge James Nolen. Judge Nolen, during a trip to Dublin, Ireland, persuaded Mr. MacAvin to change his professional interest from New York City and consider serving as manager of the Log Cabin. Mr. MacAvin had experience working in some of the finer restaurants in France, Switzerland, and Ireland.
Mr MacAvin served as a recruiting envoy to attract Irish waitstaff to cross the Atlantic and work at the Log Cabin. In the late 1960s, he arranged for several Irish students to travel and work at the Log Cabin while gaining further insight into the United States.
I do have a personal reflection to share. As a grammar school student at Mater Dolorosa, I was dropped off quite early. Early arrivals were expected to attend morning mass at the nearby parish church. From the choir loft, I would often see Edna Williams and Frank MacAvin present at morning mass.
The Log Cabin continued to receive distinguished speakers, actors, writers, musicians, and other dignitaries.
In 1984, she was honored by the Holtoke Police Relief Association. At times, when officers were injured or killed in the line of duty, Edna Williams would send food to their families as an act of caring and kindness.
In May 1991, over 600 attended a tribute for Edna Williams at the Wherehouse? to honor one who had selflessly given so much to many.
On March 22, 1992, the Log Cabin, beset by financial problems, closed its doors, but not before hosting Tom Clancy for one of the restaurant's final meals as part of the St. Patrick's Day festivities.
Epilogue:
The Log Cabin Restaurant reopened under new ownership in January 1993 and continued until February 1996, when this venture failed.
Since 1997, under new ownership, the facility has undergone extensive expansion, updates, and remodeling, and continues to serve as a prominent wedding and special-events destination.
Citations:
Newspapers.com (paid subscription): Citations: Holyoke (Massachusetts) Transcript & Transcript-Telegram; Springfield (Massachusetts) Republican; publication dates and pages are shown.
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