Commanders of the Dining Room: Biographic Sketches and Portraits of Successful Head Waiters

Commanders of the Dining Room is a 1904 book that features biographies of over 50 African American head waiters and front-of-house restaurant staff, offering insight into the traditions and personalities that shaped these culinary institutions. The book was published by Maccannon, a former head waiter, to increase the visibility and stature of Black waiters, showcase model African American manhood, and assure employers of their commitment to be dependable workers.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 190 pages
\n Publication date: 15 October 2021
\n Publisher: University of Georgia Press
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Originally published in 1904, Commanders of the Dining Room offers a captivating glimpse into the lives and careers of over fifty African American head waiters and front-of-house restaurant staff. Authored by Maccannon, a former head waiter and African American himself, the book provides invaluable insight into the traditions and personalities that shaped these culinary institutions.

Maccannon's work not only sheds light on the experiences of these individuals but also delves into the history and significance of the Head and Second Waiters National Benefit Association (HSWNBA), a union for the industry and African American hotel workers. While the HSWNBA was founded in Chicago, many of the waiters featured in Commanders hailed from southern restaurants.

Maccannon's primary objective in publishing Commanders was to elevate the visibility and reputation of Black waiters. He aimed to reassure employers that they could rely on HSWNBA members to possess a thorough understanding of their business. The book also served as a testament to the waiters' commitment to being dependable and hardworking individuals. Moreover, Maccannon sought to showcase model African American manhood, drawing inspiration from figures like Booker T. Washington.

In the spirit of Washington, Maccannon's book proclaimed to young waiters that success was within their reach if they pursued education, worked diligently, and joined an association like the HSWNBA. Through Commanders, readers were able to witness head waiters, who had started from humble beginnings and worked their way to the top, overcoming various challenges along the way.

The book's narratives are filled with personal anecdotes and stories, offering a deep understanding of the challenges and triumphs faced by these individuals in the restaurant industry. It sheds light on the social and economic conditions that shaped their lives and work, as well as the role that the HSWNBA played in advocating for their rights and improving working conditions.

Commanders of the Dining Room is a valuable resource for anyone interested in the history of African American cuisine, labor, and culture. It provides a rare glimpse into the lives and contributions of these individuals, who played a significant role in shaping the culinary landscape of the United States. Through its pages, readers gain a deeper appreciation for the struggles and achievements of Black waiters and the enduring legacy of the HSWNBA.

\n Weight: 298g\n
Dimension: 151 x 227 x 18 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9780820360805\n \n