Vickers Restaurant, a 50-year staple in Exton, is closing permanently at the end of the month. The dining room hosted a number of well-known patrons in its day, including President Richard M. Nixon and musicians Hall and Oates. Fran Maye covered the impending lights-out for the Daily Local News.

“Every moment here has been memorable,” said Amanda Brogan, whose father, Arturo Burigatto, operated the restaurant since 1972. “It definitely is the definition of bittersweet. But we are looking to spending more time with the family.”

The restaurant has been put on the market with the liquor license included. But the purchasers will need to craft a new name; The Vickers branding will also retire and is not for sale.

The business’s roots date back to 1823, when skilled potter and abolitionist John Vickers bought the farmhouse. He then constructed an additional building for a pottery business where many enslaved people found sanctuary.

This building later became Vickers Tavern, before turning into Vickers Restaurant. In 1972, it was refurbished and transformed into the restaurant many know and love today.

According to Brogan, it is still unknown if there will be a farewell event for diners.

Read more about Vickers Restaurant in the Daily Local News.