Sprout's Inn

Information may not be reliable

In 1926, at the age of 14, Cecil McClean, the oldest of nine children, left home to pursue his dream of being a jockey. With his natural athletic talent and small stature, Cecil soon became a popular sight aboard thoroughbreds at race tracks and county fairs throughout the Midwest. Cecil rode Sasa Marie to victory in the first derby ever held in Kahoka, Missouri. Among his fellow jockeys, Cecil became affectionately known as "Sprout".

In 1935 "Sprout" married Evelyn Schreake and together in 1940 they founded Sprout's tavern, which was located at 1029 Broadway in Quincy Illinois.

Sprout's Tavern soon became a favorite gathering place for the young soldiers returning home from World War II.

While "Sprout" was serving in the military, as most men were during this time period, Evelyn and her twin sister Emily looked after the day to day operations of Sprout's Tavern.

In 1948 Evelyn and "Sprout" sold Sprout's Tavern and built a new building at the current location of 2814 North 12th Street.

They promoted the image of a family dining restaurant, with curb side service and although the curb side service didn't last, the family dining restaurant did. Although the Sprout's restaurant building has undergone four expansions, the object of the business is still what Cecil and Evelyn McClean started over 60 years ago, a comfortable, friendly, family like, place where people can meet for good food in a casual atmosphere.

Gift Certificates Available - Any Denomination

Whole Pies (one of the many things Sprout's is known for) are available to Go - Call and order 1 day in advance