From the Archives
A "Rooty" bear mascot that belong to Rockey Burkholder before he donated it to the museum for all the visitors to see. In 1974, A&W introduced "The Great Root Bear," also known as "Rooty" as the brand's mascot.
From the Archives
A&W Root Beer is an American brand of root beer that was founded in 1919 by Roy W. Allen and primarily available in the United States and Canada. Allen partnered with Frank Wright in 1922, creating the A&W brand which inspired a chain of A&W Restaurants that year. Originally, A&W Root Beer sold for five cents. In 1974, A&W introduced "The Great Root Bear," also called "Rooty," as a mascot for the brand.
In 1961, the A&W Root Beer Drive-In, owned by Tafts and Houcks, had its spring opening on the South Hill. A carhop would bring the fast food to people in their cars at the drive-in. In 1985, the A&W became Sunny's Drive-In.
This "Rooty" bear belonged to Rockey Burkholder. He donated it to the Museum for all the visitors to see.
Your Boundary County Historical Society and Museum, 7229 Main, Bonners Ferry, Idaho sponsors this column. Visit the Museum Thursday-Saturday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and you can visit the website at www.boundarycountymuseum.org or the Museum’s Facebook Page for historical photos and stories, and to see upcoming events. Or we can be reached at doyouremember@meadowcrk.com or telephone 208-267-7720. Thank you for your continued support.