**Family Tradition Leads to Historic Celebration at Wintzell’s Oyster House**
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For the Rush family from Mobile, Alabama, a visit to Wintzell’s Oyster House has been a cherished tradition spanning decades, dating back to 1972. Recently, this family ritual reached an extraordinary milestone when Jimmy Rush and his 99-year-old father, Jim, became the first people to claim the restaurant’s longstanding offer of free oysters for any customer who turns 80 and visits with their father.
Jimmy, now aged 80, expressed his anticipation for this special birthday, stating, “Never thought about any birthdays except my 80th… That’s the one I was looking forward to — because of the sign.” Alongside him in this memorable celebration was his younger brother, Carl, who shared enthusiasm and hinted at a future reunion, saying he plans to reclaim the offer when he turns 80 in 2028.
The tradition of visiting Wintzell’s Oyster House began when Jimmy and his father participated in Mardi Gras celebrations, making their way to the restaurant to enjoy oysters each Friday night. “My dad and I started riding in a parade at Mardi Gras on Friday nights,” Jimmy recalled. “So we would come down here on Friday afternoon and eat oysters. And that started in 1972.” A particular sign in the restaurant has stuck with them throughout the years, proclaiming free oysters for any man who reaches the age of 80 while accompanied by his father.
As his milestone birthday approached, Jimmy was aware of the significance of that sign and was determined to make history. “I can quote by heart, ‘Free oysters, to any man 80 years old, accompanied by his father,’” Carl remarked, emphasising the family’s long-held belief that their father would live past 100 due to his excellent health. “We’ve been talking about it as a family for 25, 30 years,” he added.
On the momentous day of Jimmy’s 80th birthday, the trio made their way to Wintzell’s, eager to redeem the offer that had gone unclaimed for so long. With the bartender confirming that they’d be the first to take advantage of the promotion, Jimmy quipped, “We said, ‘We’ll be the first.’” Jim joyfully declared, “We’re the number ones.”
Following their historic visit, Wintzell’s Oyster House took to social media to celebrate the occasion. A post on Facebook recounted the heartwarming event, highlighting how most patrons see the sign as a whimsical joke, while the Rush family turned it into a significant milestone. The post read, “But tonight, Jimmy Rush walked in on his 80th birthday with his father, James Rush, 99, right beside him, and turned one of Wintzell’s rarest traditions into a real-life milestone.”
The festive celebration also included around 60 of their closest friends and family members who joined in the jubilant occasion, making Jimmy’s 80th birthday a memorable affair. “The Rush family has been part of this place for years, and they didn’t come alone,” the post continued, mentioning the vibrant atmosphere brimming with shared memories and, of course, complimentary oysters.
In reflecting on his special day, Jimmy asserted, “Never thought about any birthdays except my 80th. That’s the one I was looking forward to — because of the sign.” Carl echoed his brother’s sentiments as he looked forward to his own 80th birthday celebration at the same venue. “We will be back to do this all over again in October of 2028 when I turn 80. My dad says he’s going to make it, so that’s good enough for me,” he shared.
As for Jim Rush, whose longevity has captured the attention of many, he attributes his well-being to more than just hereditary luck. A decorated veteran of both World War II and the Korean War, Jim stated simply, “I take no medication and have been very lucky and very well taken care of through my God.” Despite acknowledging a decline in his vision, Jim reflected on his life with gratitude, sharing, “It worked out,” through emotional tears.
The story of the Rush family at Wintzell’s Oyster House not only exemplifies a longstanding tradition but also highlights the bonds of family and the joy of making memories together. As they continue this unique chapter of their lives, one cannot help but look forward to the next milestone celebration at this beloved eatery, filled with laughter, love, and, undoubtedly, more oysters.