Providence’s Olneyville New York System Auctioning Off Historic Neon Signs
PROVIDENCE (WBSM) — One of Rhode Island’s most famous eateries is about to put a few iconic pieces of its history up on the auction block.
Olneyville New York System in the Olneyville neighborhood of Providence has been serving up its hot wieners since 1946, and has amassed fans from all over.
In fact, it’s one of celebrity restaurateur and television personality Guy Fieri’s all-time favorite spots.
Honestly, we wouldn’t be surprised if it was Guy who you might be bidding against when Olneyville New York System puts pieces of its original neon signs up for auction.
The restaurant posted photos to its Facebook page of the sign in its current condition as well as its heyday.
“Our original neon sign was installed in 1954 when we had a second floor on the building (which was once a roller skating rink and then a hand-set bowling alley) until we had to remove it for structural reasons in 1972,” the restaurant posted.
“The black and white pic is from 1958 and the color pic (yes, that's Benny's!) is from 1978,” the post reads. “In a few weeks, we'll be auctioning these parts of the sign for charity along with the original front window neon sign...stay tuned!”
We will share the details about the auction with you once it is announced.
Think about the generations of late-night denizens who lined up for two all the way and a coffee milk under that dazzling neon as it blazed out into the dark of night, serving as a beacon for the hungry and the sleepless.
Now imagine how that might look hanging up over your home bar, in your man cave, or in your garage.
Don’t let Guy beat you and bring it to Flavortown.
Guy Fieri Highlights These 10 New England Restaurants on 'Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives'
Gallery Credit: Riley
SEE INSIDE: Guy Fieri Just Spent $7.3 Million For This Massive Florida Palace
Gallery Credit: Rob Carroll