Back to Barbecue

To the Editor:

In one of your recent articles, Jeff Wick brought back some forgotten memories. I graduated from Taylor High School where the sports coach was named Drake. So naturally the mascot and teams were known as the Taylor Ducks. Please don’t ask what year I graduated because that would reveal that I am 91 going on 60.

In my teenage life, I experienced drastic changes since I attended a high school of over 2,000 students, Lamar in Houston, to one with about 500 students in the entire school system in Taylor.

Back to barbecue, one of my most enjoyable memories is what my dad did every Saturday morning. His routine being to immediately join the lines of people which was rapidly getting longer. People in the surrounding towns also yarned for this unique product. It had a aroma that made your mouth water. What in the world was so desirable? If you have ever lived in this area, you know from personal experience your taste buds rejoice. The name of this article reveals that it is barbecue. But this is not your ordinary barbecue. You are probably thinking Heck, I’ve eaten barbecue my whole life. ‘Tis was Mikeska’s barbecue. Daddy bought a heaping amount while he was in line. Breathing that unique fragrance, he hoped his precious purchase would last all week, but many times he watched his happy family enjoy it, since my parents, two sisters, and a brother would always show up at the table, not a chance.

Thank you, Jeff, for telling us about the Mikeska family being in business for 70 years. I did not know they were in so many other places besides Taylor. If my daddy was alive, he would certainly enjoy your article. You don’t stand in line until your feet ache for nothing. Since my two sisters and brother grew up on this special treat, they will also enjoy your article. Mikeska’s are still in business in Taylor. They are truly barbecue kings of the southwest. Mikeska’s Barbecue in Taylor is like kolaches in La Grange.