Cottage Grove, Tenn.–Owners of local landmark Carmack’s Fish Barn, which was destroyed by fire in late September, have announced they have not yet made a decision on whether to rebuild.
In a Facebook post, the owners said, “As far as what are the plans for Carmack’s going forward, we are not taking this decision lightly, so we do not have a definite answer to give on if we will re-build. We will definitely keep you all in the loop.”
The landmark, which was opened in 1984, was a popular spot for great catfish, hush puppies, beans and more. The grounds of the restaurant were also the location of an informal petting zoo which was popular with customers. It was located on Hwy. 140 between Cottage Grove and Como.
Owner Kaylene Radford said the loss of the restaurant has been devastating and they are still grieving.
In her post, she said, “Carmack’s was more than just a job, my parents were married in that old barn, I met my husband there when we were just 15 years old, I made lifelong customers/friends who supported any new change or idea I had for the restaurant. We lost a part of our childhood and what feels like a member of our family. The memories I have there will forever be my favorite.”
The following is her post:
“First off, I would like to apologize that this has taken me so long to post, but also a huge thank you to my customers who are more like family for giving us this time to grieve the loss of Carmacks.
“Thank you to each and every one of the fire fighters and police officers who fought so hard to save my pride and joy. “Thank you to each and every one of you who has reached out and offered a shoulder to cry on or a hand in the cleanup process.
“I have only owned the barn for 4 years, but I have worked there for more than half of my life.
“To Sandy and Roe McCrarry I can never say thank you enough for trusting me with the barn, yall taught me at the tender age of 13 how to find your passion and pursue it.
“To my past and current employees, yall were the absolute best and we have so many fond memories. I hope I made a positive impact on your life. shoot for the stars you will all do great things in this world.
“To my customers, the love and outreach yall have shown us in this devastating time in our lives is absolutely amazing. We have felt each and every prayer you have prayed. I knew carmacks was loved, but this tragedy has shown me that carmacks was really LOVED. I can never put into words how grateful we are or say thank you enough for the calls, texts, and messages. I know that yall are truly as devasted by this as we are
“Carmacks was more than just a job, my parents were married in that old barn, I met my husband there when we were just 15 years old, I made lifelong customers/friends who supported any new change or idea I had for the restaurant. We lost a part of our childhood and what feels like a member of our family. The memories I have there will forever be my favorite.
“As far as what are the plans for carmacks going forward, we are not taking this decision lightly, so we do not have a definite answer to give on if we will re-build. We will definitely keep you all in the loop.
“Again, THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart. We love and appreciate each and every one of you.”
Photo: The aftermath of the Carmack’s Fire. Photo by Shannon McFarlin.