A Chicago Legend

Harold Pierce, was an African American entrepreneur, left an indelible mark on Chicago's culinary landscape as the founder of the iconic Harold's Chicken Shack. Born in 1917 in Midway, Alabama, Pierce migrated to Chicago during the Great Migration, a period when many African Americans moved north seeking better economic opportunities.

Originally working as a chauffeur, he later pursued his passion for food, opening his first fried chicken restaurant on Chicago's South Side in 1950. What set Harold's Chicken Shack apart was its simple yet flavorful recipe—crispy fried chicken served with a signature mild or spicy sauce, often accompanied by white bread and fries.

Pierce's business model was revolutionary for its time. Instead of traditional franchising, he licensed his brand to friends and family, allowing African American entrepreneurs to own and operate their own locations, fostering economic empowerment within the Black community.

Today, Harold's Chicken has become more than just a restaurant; it's a cultural institution, symbolizing the resilience, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit of Chicago's Black community. Pierce's legacy lives on through countless Harold's locations across the U.S., serving as a flavorful testament to Black excellence in business and cuisine.