The Waffle Shop began in 1924 as a fundraiser for First Presbyterian Church. Organized by The Women of the Church, one of its members, Mary Thompson (Mrs. Sam) Orr, provided early leadership by bringing with her to the church her African American cook, Katherine Douglas, who provided the recipe for the waffles that have been served in Fellowship Hall at the church on the first Thursday in December for 99 years. In the early 1990s, when Katherine was 84 years old, and still cooking for the Waffle Shop, she revealed her recipe. Here it is. “For each batch of more than fifty waffles, use two dozen eggs, a pound of flour mixed with a little salt and baking powder, a gallon of milk, and two and one-half cups of vegetable oil.” It works beautifully,” Katherine added.
It used to be that the Waffle Shop was the quai-official start of the Christmas season when people traveled downtown to shop at Cain-Sloan and Harvey’s and at Everett Holzapfel’s to get dad a new tie. Those days are long gone, but the Waffle Shop has held its ground. While the food may not be fancy, hip or gourmet, it is warm and delicious. This year, on Thursday, Dec. 7, between 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., volunteers will serve homemade waffles, a choice of Hattie B’s mild or hot chicken or Puckett’s Country bacon along with Frothy Monkey coffee and spiced tea.
You will also enjoy the camaraderie as you may find yourself seated beside a Nashville fireman, a U.S. Senator or a mayor. The Downtown Presbyterian Church, a National landmark, known all over the world as one of the finest examples of Egyptian revival architecture, is a small progressive church open to all and dedicated to serving the poor. The funds raised from the Waffle Shop will go towards purchasing food and supplies for the weekly meals served to the less advantaged members of our community.
While at the Waffle Shop, take historian Jim Hoobler’s tour of the sanctuary, which formally opened on Easter Sunday, 1850. Music director William Taylor will also be playing the organ at various times. Holiday music in Fellowship Hall will be provided by musician Les Kerr while you enjoy your lunch. Be sure and visit the silent auction where you can bid on hotel rooms, museum passes, sports tickets and much more. And take the opportunity to shop at the church’s gift shop which includes homemade baked goods and other holiday merchandise.
Free parking will be available in Lot B at the Nissan Stadium and an Old Town Trolley will provide shuttle service. Tickets are $15 in advance and will increase to $20 the day of the event. To purchase a ticket or for more information, go to the church’s website (dpchurch.com) and support Waffle Shop 2023.