There is so much to say about Scatter that we could not possibly ever tell you every little detail about this unique businessman.
Scatter’s wasCleveland’s number one barbecue spot, located at931 East 105th Street.
As you dinned there, you never knew who you might see. Every time I sat on one of the round pedestal cushioned-top stool seats that lined along the café’s lengthy counter and the juke box played the latest tunes, I was always intrigued by the gigantic 3x4 foot poster-sized black and white photos that hung on the walls, reflecting Scatter’s prominent acquaintances.
His photo posters showed him with well-known sports figures like the great boxing champion Sugar Ray Robinson, musician extraordinaire Count Basie, the first African-American to play major league baseball Jackie Robinson, and countless other photos representing the many friends Scatter had aligned himself with during his short life of only 47 years.
In some of the photos, he wore his chef’s hat while behind the on the grill with friends, which drew your attention even more so to this tastefully decorated, cool, and relaxing set up.
Oftentimes, on Saturday nights, you would see in the back cooking a stocky guy, profusely perspiring, wearing a white apron with a towel draped around his neck to trap the sweat, calling out orders for pick-up. This was the man himself, “Scatter.”
The food and service was always superb and an unforgettable experience. They seemingly never neglected to say “Thank you” after serving patrons, which always ended with a hardy smile.
It is unquestionable that “Scatterbrain” – as he was called – and hard work were no strangers. He worked tirelessly to stay on top of the things which earned him his reputation.
There is so much to say about Scatter that we could not possibly ever tell you every little detail about this unique businessman. Many Clevelander’s thought he could walk on water.
Herman James Stephens was born June 1, 1920, in Vinesville, Alabama, a small city near Birmingham, in JeffersonCounty. He, his mother Emma, his step-father Julius Ricks and his two-year-old baby brother, George Ricks moved to Clevelandin 1934 when Herman was 14 year old.
Full story only available in the Call & Post Newspaper which can be purchased at 11800 Shaker Blvd. Keep up with Scatter's life
