West Columbia BBQ Tradition Faces Tough Times
Devastating Blaze Destroys Iconic Maurice’s Piggie Park BBQ Facility
West Columbia, known for its rich barbecue heritage, woke up to heartbreaking news on October 26, 2023. The beloved food preparation facility for Maurice’s Piggie Park BBQ, a staple of Southern barbeque, was engulfed in flames late Saturday night. This facility, which had kept the BBQ pits burning since 1992, was central to the operations of one of South Carolina’s most iconic restaurant chains.
During a visit to the production site last October, it was hard not to be impressed by the bustling energy that filled the air. Workers were busily loading logs into the massive smokers designed by the late Maurice Bessinger, the mastermind behind the original Piggie Park BBQ, founded in 1953. These time-tested pits were not just for show; they were essential, needing to be restocked with wood three times a day to keep the aroma of smoked meats wafting through the air.
As Paul Bessinger, Maurice’s son and now the pitmaster, explained during the tour, the facility was churning out large quantities of succulent barbecue daily. The work was demanding, but it was evident that the family had made it a labor of love. “We built these ourselves,” Paul proudly proclaimed as he checked on the various meats being prepared, ready to be sent to the chain’s locations spread across West Columbia, Irmo, Columbia, and Lexington.
A Legacy of Southern Barbecue
Sadly, that legacy is now cast in shadow following the fire that ravaged the facility, eliminating the BBQ pits, food prep areas, and offices that served their loyal employees. With approximately 150 workers affected, the owners took to social media to express their sorrow: “It is heartbreaking to see these 69 years of hard work and generations of memories at this location burned to the ground,” the heartfelt post read.
The cause of this disaster remains unclear, leaving the future of Maurice’s restaurants uncertain as they scramble to find alternative cooking solutions. The iconic sign that stood tall over the facility, a symbol for many in the community, remains unharmed; many are taking comfort in this small piece of good news amid the devastation.
Community and Historical Significance
A community divided has emerged—while many mourn the loss of the beloved BBQ institution, others have pointed to the complicated history associated with the Bessinger family and their business. Maurice Bessinger, the founder, had a controversial past that intertwined BBQ with politics and race. He had established a reputation not just for his cooking but also for his promotion of divisive literature and symbols that have left an indelible mark on the area’s history.
Paul Bessinger and his siblings have pledged to move forward without these negative associations, focusing solely on serving what they believe is the world’s best barbecue. “We don’t dabble in politics at all,” Paul stated during our chat, emphasizing the family’s commitment to making quality food while distancing themselves from the past practices of their father.
Plans for the Future
In the days following the fire, the family has vowed to pick up the pieces and rebuild. While the physical structure may have burned, the spirit of Maurice’s Piggie Park BBQ still thrives among supporters and employees. As Paul noted, “We worked every day. None of us go anywhere.” The dedication to maintaining the tradition of real wood-fired barbecue runs deep, highlighted by their commitment to their community and customers.
As plans begin for the future, the team at Maurice’s knows that they face an uphill battle. However, through determination and hard work, they hope to rise from the ashes, maintaining the culinary standards that have been cherished for generations. While the journey ahead will be challenging, they are not alone; the West Columbia community stands ready to lend their support and love as they work to rebuild what’s been lost.
The iconic “Little Joe” pig sign may still smile down on the neighborhood, a sign of resilience, unity, and commitment to the traditions that make Southern barbecue what it is today. For now, the wait continues as the team at Maurice’s starts the journey to forge a new chapter in their storied history.
