So, with every company wanting to update and improve, Cracker Barrel jumped in with a new plainer logo. However, it really threw people for a loop because gone was the old logo about the country store with a man sitting in a chair next to a barrel. One was led to believe the barrel was full of soda crackers.
During the 18th Century, crackers were shipped and stored in large wooden barrels. When the large barrels became empty, they would serve as make do tables or to use for checkerboard games. The community would gather at these sites, to exchange news and to socialize.
Road Trip Stop Off
Back in 1969, Craker Barrel was founded in Tennessee as a way of selling more gasoline. A gas station was paired with the country style restaurant and an old-time looking country store.
Pretty soon, the Cracker Barrels spread across the US to over 600 locations.
Personal Experience
The first thing people notice about Cracker Barrel is the row of white rocking chairs. If the restaurant is packed and you need to wait for a table, you can often sit and rock for a while. Many times, a checkerboard game has been set up outside. However, I would have a hard time thinking about the last time I played checkers, probably as a kid.
The store and restaurant are always decorated with old signs, photographs, farm implements, cooking items, and antiques from a by gone era.
Years ago, while traveling from Florida to home, we stopped at a Cracker Barrel. The store and restaurant look about the same as the one we have in our town. I generally order the roast beef, mashed potatoes with gravy, and a vegetable. Note: With some of their changes, I hope it is still on their menu. My companion would order their chicken and dumplings.
Upon leaving the restaurant, I would shop in their country store. Let’s see, I always check out the old fashion candy. I often buy some Cow Tails, chocolate candy, etc. for dessert which I eat and share it on the way home. If it is near the holiday, then I pick up a bar of walnut divinity.
I quickly browse their women’s clothing section. They have roomy T-shirts, dresses, and tops to select from. They have some children’s toys and stuffed animals. Plus a few things for the house like mirrors, scented candles, tea towels, potholders, coffee mugs, etc.
Ending Notes on Cracker Barrel Logo
Sadly, I am not compelled to discuss the Cracker Barrel Logo, that is a decision to be made by their marketing department not little old me at Farmhouse Magic Blog. Last month, the restaurant changed its logo, and then changed it back after heated comments about the new logo.
For now, thinking of Cracker Barrel and old-time goodness makes me want to dash off there soon for a meal regardless of the logo.
Country Boys and Gals enjoy a good country meal.
Note: Photos are of candy display, not necessarily at Cracker Barrel Restaurant.
Resource Sites: Google A-I and Washington Post and Food Section, Wed., Sept. 3, 2025.