Richard’s Coffee Shop: Veterans Are Welcome
A Haven for Veterans
Even though the sign out front says, “Richard’s Coffee Shop,” anyone passing by will get the first hint there’s more since everything in the large display window is related somehow to the military. Having enough artifacts for a different theme every three months, Wayne Agee, a veteran and regular, is proud of that window since he’s in charge of the display.
Richard’s Coffee Shop in Mooresville, NC, was started by and later named for Richard Warren, a Huey helicopter gunship pilot who flew 29 missions during the Vietnam war. Originally named for his wife, Pat, with business not doing as well in the early years as he had hoped, Richard often stood on the sidewalk, talking to people as they went by. Asking if they were a veteran, he then would invite them in for a cup of coffee.
As word spread Pat’s was a great place for veterans to hang out, not only did they come in for coffee, but they came in for companionship and a chance to take their mind off their troubles, if only for a little while. Before long, some of them began bringing in military memorabilia such as photos and uniforms, finding a place for them on the walls of the shop.
With the collection of memorabilia and patrons continuing to grow, after a period of about 14 years, it became obvious Richard needed a larger place. It was also about that time a non-profit group formed called, “Welcome Home Veterans.” Ironically, a few months after the group formed, Richard passed away. Becoming even more dedicated to making sure veterans would have a place to meet and carry on Richard’s legacy, through generous donations of individuals and businesses, the non-profit group moved to the current and much larger location at 165 N. Main St. in Mooresville, naming it Richard’s Coffee Shop.
Wayne said Saturday mornings are especially fun with guitar, fiddle and banjo “pickers,” playing blue grass, gospel and crowd favorites in a large open area. If you play a stringed instrument, bring it along. You don’t have to be a veteran to join in, but you do have to know how to have fun.
To learn more about Richard’s Coffee Shop in Mooresville, NC, stop by for coffee, a sandwich or a tour, Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. until 3 p.m., or check out their website at Welcome Vets. com. If interested in learning more about the behind the scenes stories of a few of the regulars, like Wayne Agee, check out this Salisbury Post link.
Congratulations to Richard’s Coffee Shop. For continuing Richard Warren’s vision of a much needed place of refuge, relaxation and restoration for veterans, you are my favorite place of the week.
Do you know a place in your community where veterans feel appreciated and accepted? Leave a comment, message on Facebook or email dicysm@yahoo.com
Thanks,
Dicy
www.dicymcculloughbooks.com/blog
