Barry Litton was recognized by the Fountain City Business & Professional Association with its annual Claude C. Myers award for 2017, given to an outstanding business leader who exemplifies the leadership and community involvement of the late Claude Myers, longtime president of Fountain City Bank.
“When we need something, Barry is always there,” said club president John Fugate. Barry and his sister, Kelly Litton, own and operate Litton’s Restaurant in Fountain City. Barry’s son, Erik, has joined the family business in preparation for future management.
Barry Litton stands outside Litton’s Restaurant in Fountain City. (Photo from company website)
Commercial Bank hosted the BPA’s annual holiday reception, known for its Christmas music, door prizes, silent auction and donations to area elementary schools.
Fugate will serve as president in 2018, assisted by president-elect Beth Wade. Association membership is open to business professionals in Fountain City. The group meets at noon each second Wednesday in the fellowship hall of Central Baptist Church. Info: https://fountaincitybusiness.com
Litton’s Restaurant is truly a Fountain City institution. From the regulars who eat lunch in the back room to the sports teams that come to celebrate that big win, Litton’s almost always has something going on. Peyton Manning and Todd Helton frequent Litton’s as do various UT coaches. The restaurant is home to the North Knoxville Rotary Club. It’s a stalwart supporter of the Fountain City Lions Club and all things Bobcat.
And Erik represents the fourth generation of management.
Eldridge Litton founded Litton’s Market in 1946. His Inskip-based market sold produce, groceries, hardware and gasoline.
In 1953, Eldridge’s son, Edwin, became a partner. A deli counter was added to the market in 1962 and the first “Litton Burger” was sold there for 89 cents. Edwin also served with distinction on the Knox County Board of Education.
Barry and Kelly Litton carried on the tradition. Barry graduated from Central
Officers and board members of the Fountain City Business & Professional Association: (front) Beth Wade, Regina Reed, Samantha Parris, Elaine Shipe; (back) John Fugate, Eric Wolburg and Andrew Hartung.
High School in 1969 and joined the U.S. Marine Corps, serving one tour of duty in Vietnam. In 1980, Barry opened a fresh meat market in Fountain City. The next year, he sold his first 8-ounce hamburger with bacon on a hoagie bun for $1.99.
Meanwhile, Kelly Litton trained as a chef at Rich’s Cooking School in Atlanta. She began overseeing the kitchen at Litton’s and, in 1983, Barry expanded the market to a full-scale restaurant. With a commitment to honor church and family, Litton’s closes on holidays and Sundays. Traditionally, the staff takes a week’s vacation in July.
Under the direction of Lynda Jones, Litton’s opened a bakery in 1983. It produces fresh buns and desserts which are now shipped nationwide through the restaurant’s website.
Barry’s three children, Erik, Ashley and Elizabeth, all worked at the restaurant while attending school. And Erik attended Johnson and Wales University in Charleston in 1992.
Litton’s is known for hiring men and women with disabilities. Jimmy Tindell and Rosie Peralta have 20-plus-year careers at Litton’s and are considered part of the family.
The restaurant has received media coverage on ESPN and in Southern Living.
Fountain City and Litton’s – partners in community service and in creating a unique place to live and celebrate life.