Biddie's Restaurant and Motel 1925-1970

Biddie's gas station and restaurant about 1934 - "Biddie" is the gentleman on the extreme right.

Biddie's Restaurant is one of Napoleon's best-remembered eating establishments. Located at the corner of Routes 24 and 6 on the Southside, Biddie's was established as a roadside BarB-Que. Tourist cabins and a gas station were also part of the corner scene.

Owners Lloyd and Callie Bittikofer or "Biddie's" as called by most of their friends and customers, were known for their hospitality and good food. Many still remember Callie's famous pickle relish and the rich old-fashion cream pies.

As the business expanded, Sunday chicken dinners became almost a tradition. Sunday long lines stretchingfrom the restaurant were commonplace — especially during the 1940's.

When Lloyd passed away in 1938, Callie ran the restaurant with one of her daughters and son-in-law, Bertha and Reynold Mullen. When cross-country motoring became the national rage in the 1920's, Biddie's was one of the first to build tourist cabins. In 1946, after World War II, a new modern motel was built at 179 East Maumee Ave.

Biddie's tourist cabins, just off route 24, about 1934.

Callie Bittikofer remained active in the management of the motel until her retirement in 1954. Her other daughter, Mrs. Helen Saneholtz and her husband, Mr. Arthur Saneholtz, then owned and operated the motel until their retirement in 1970.

Submitted by Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Saneholtz