Feeding Minnesota: The Inspiring Story of Oscar Howard’s Culinary Legacy
Discover the inspiring story of Oscar C. Howard, a chef who not only fed Minnesota but also nourished its community with his culinary legacy. 🍽️ #BlackHistoryMonth #OscarCHoward #FeedingMinnesota
Minneapolis, Minnesota – Oscar Howard was a man who not only fed Minnesota with his delicious pecan pies and catering services but also nourished the community with his mentorship, preaching, and philanthropy. Celebrating Black History Month, let’s dive into the remarkable journey of this trailblazing chef and entrepreneur.
Born in Georgia, Howard worked his way through high school before pursuing studies in commercial dietetics at Alabama’s Tuskegee Institute. His education was interrupted by World War II, where he served as a military policeman and trained soldiers in cooking and baking. It was during this time that he perfected his famous Southern pecan pie recipe.
After the war, Howard completed his degree and began his career as an instructor and executive chef at Tuskegee. Despite facing challenges, including the failure of his first catering business, he persevered. An opportunity in Minnesota led him to the Twin Cities Arsenal in New Brighton, where he managed a cafeteria staff of 100 to feed 15,000 workers.
In the evenings, he started a small catering business from his home, which eventually grew into a full-time venture, Howard’s Industrial Catering Company.
Howard’s journey was not without obstacles. He faced discrimination, being turned down for jobs and struggling to receive bank loans or food supplies on credit. Yet, he remained focused on his goals and became a successful businessman and an influential African American in previously all-white groups.
Creator of Meals on Wheels Program
His commitment to helping others was evident in his work with the Meals on Wheels program, which he developed to provide low-cost, nutritious meals to senior citizens. This program would later be replicated throughout the country. Howard also dedicated himself to mentoring young people and helping African Americans develop their skills for success. He co-founded the Metropolitan Economic Development Association, supporting minority entrepreneurs with loans, education, and mentoring.
In the early 1980s, Howard sold his catering businesses to focus entirely on philanthropy and public service. He served on boards for various organizations and helped found Kwanzaa Community Presbyterian Church in North Minneapolis. Oscar Howard passed away in 2003 at the age of eighty-nine, leaving behind a legacy of culinary excellence and community service.
🗣 What do you think of Oscar Howard’s life story? Who are your Black History heroes? Let us know in the comments! ⬇️