This McDonald’s from 1953 survived corporate takeover with a loophole

McDonald’s Downey, California

The ‘Golden Arches’ in Downey opened on August 18, 1953, the oldest McDonalds still in operation and the third one ever built in the U.S.

Brothers Richard and Maurice McDonald picked this location as their second franchise, and it has withstood much drama for over 70 years now.

Here’s the story of this fast food time capsule you can visit today.

The Brothers’ Original Franchise Story

In 1953, Roger Williams and Bud Landon, bought the Downey franchise rights, using their experience in picking prime gas station locations.

Williams had a personal tie to McDonald’s as his brother-in-law opened the first franchise in Phoenix. They made their deal directly with the McDonald brothers.

Not with Ray Kroc (though some publications might cite this).

Cause The Price Was Right, Sales Were Big

In its first two years, this location sold over 2 million burgers. It also served more than 429,000 milkshakes back in those days.

Prices were incredibly low by today’s standards. Hamburgers cost just 15 cents, about half what sit-down restaurants once charged.

Fries cost 10 cents, milkshakes 20 cents, and a Coke just a dime. This kind of pricing made fast food an affordable option for everyday families.

The Store Experienced Demolition and Salvation

In 1994, the restaurant nearly disappeared.

McDonald’s Corporation used the Northridge earthquake as a convenient excuse to close the Downey location, which they had already planned to demolish.

But the locals and history lovers pushed back hard. After protests, McDonald’s restored the building and reopened it in 1996.

A 2024 Guardian article noted that Downey’s first McDonald’s actually survived the Northridge quake owing to its sturdy construct.

The National Register of Historic Places

In 1984, the Downey McDonald’s earned a spot that’s rare for a building that was technically just 31 years old at that time.

But California gave it even more protection in 1990, naming it a “State Point of Historical Interest.”

Today this place draws tourists from around the world. Many come just to snap a photo and enjoy a meal where fast food history began.

Architecture That Slams the Brakes (Even Today)

Architect Stanley Clark Meston designed the Downey McDonald’s with a red and white tile exterior and slanted roof that catches the eye.

Two large golden arches curve through each side of the building. The eye-catching style was known as “Googie” architecture back in the 1950s.

This bold, space-age design was meant to stand out to drivers cruising by.

Speedee the Original Mascot Still Exists

Before Ronald McDonald, there was Speedee, a cartoon chef with a burger-shaped head and a big smile that drew in large crowds.

You can still see him on the Downey sign, perched on top of a 60-foot golden arch, representing the “Speedee Service System,” which made McDonald’s famous.

Though the company switched to Ronald in the ’60s, Speedee stayed in Downey.

Apple Pies Remain Deep-Fried (Not Baked!)

In 1992, the rest of the chain switched to baking them, but Downey kept frying, giving their pies a crisp, golden crust and bubbly texture.

The crispy, bubbled crust of these pies gives them a different taste and texture from the soft pies served at other McDonald’s restaurants.

Some buy six or more to take home and share.

Car Shows Connecting Past to Present

Back then, Americans fell in love with both cars and fast food. This tradition continues today as classic car shows are a regular event in the parking lot.

Collectors bring vintage vehicles for display, adding to the 1950s atmosphere. You might even see guests strolling among shiny old cars with a burger in hand.

Museum and Gift Shop That You Can Visit

Next to the restaurant is a small museum (added during the 1990s renovation) with indoor seating that gives guests a peek at how the empire began.

It holds old Happy Meal toys, vintage ads, and photos from McDonald’s early days. There’s even a replica of the original San Bernardino stand.

Visiting McDonald’s Downey

You’ll find the historic McDonald’s at 10207 Lakewood Boulevard, open daily from 6 am to 10 pm, with later hours on Fridays and Saturdays.

There’s no entry fee. Just grab a meal and enjoy the atmosphere. Car shows are often held on weekend evenings.

It’s an easy drive from I-5 or I-605, at the corner of Lakewood and Florence.

Read More from WhenInYourState.com:

• The Planet’s Tallest Living Things Nearly Became Lumber Until 1960s Activists Made Their Last Stand
• This LA Artist Built 99-Foot Towers Using Only Hand Tools, Then Gave Away His Property and Disappeared
• California’s Accidental Lake is Saltier Than the Ocean & Shrinking Into a Public Health Crisis