EAST PROVIDENCE — A number of people who fondly remember the old Pink Elephant Carhop and Restaurant took a walk down memory lane last Saturday to help celebrate the first annual reunion of this once famous Route 44 landmark in Seekonk.

Throughout the 1950s and 60s, the Pink Elephant was "THE" place for all teenagers to hang out. A haven for hotrods, dragsters, and some the snazziest cars one could imagine, the Pink Elephant was somewhat of a precursor to the popular “Happy Days” TV show. Kids and hot rods; burgers and fries; and, of course, those sweet-looking car hop waitresses on roller skates delivering the food to hungry customers. You get the picture.

Some years ago, East Providence resident James N. “Jim” Viara, along with his brothers, Manny and Ralph, put the finishing touches on the original Pink Elephant sign, bringing it back to life. From there, the Viara boys decided to build a replica of the original building, which closed in 1970 and was eventually torn down. Last Saturday, everything came back into focus as if the 1950s had never escaped those who remember it. The reunion was held in beautiful late summer weather conditions in Jim Viara’s warehouse parking lot on Leavitt Street in Seekonk.

Mr. Viara, a well-known and respected East Providence Townie and a member of the East Providence High School Hall of Fame, was on hand last Saturday to greet many of his old friends, including some whom he hung around with at the Pink Elephant. There were scores of classic and antique cars on display and other attractions, including entertainer Doug Botelho of Bristol, who sang many famous songs of the ‘50s. Naturally, hot dogs, hamburgers, ice cream, and the like were served to help give this event a full 1950s flavor. It was a day to remember.

Mr. Viara was happy to promote this event for the benefit of the Avon Foundation for Breast Cancer, where the Pink Elephant Reunion Committee chose to donate any and all proceeds after expenses.

“This was all done for a great cause,” he said. “We’re very happy with the way things worked out.”

One person who thoroughly enjoyed reminiscing about her Pink Elephant experience was past Rotary District 7950 Governor, Valerie Perry, of East Providence.

“I wouldn’t have missed this for anything,” she beamed. “The Pink Elephant is where my husband and I had our first date. It holds so many wonderful memories for us.”