From The Press of Atlantic City — Known for its horseradish-infused cheese and huge windows overlooking the Pine Barrens and Mullica River, the Sweetwater Casino’s rustic setting belied its popularity. The bar, restaurant and marina were a destination for boaters on the Mullica, generations of families, bikers on their Sunday rides through the woods and a legion of about 30 regulars who stayed loyal through the winters.

 

The early Monday morning fire that demolished the landmark also destroyed decades of history hung on the walls: photos of the 81-year-old restaurant and historic scenes of Atlantic City; menus signed by television personalities, politicians and former Miss Americas; and an invitation to a 1936 New Years’ Eve party requiring guests to spend at least $1, the favorite of former owner Alesia Shute, who sold the restaurant three years ago.

 

The establishment’s name came from ‘The Heiress of Sweetwater,’ a novel about the the American Revolution that fictionally dubbed the Pleasant Mills area Sweetwater, according to Ron Bates, trustee of the Buena Historical Society.

 

The affection among patrons, owners and employees, however, was very real: Everyone interviewed expressed regret at the loss of the building, concern for the owners and fondness toward their memories of the restaurant.

 

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‘It was like a family. When you came in, they’d know your name and face, plus people would come for the atmosphere. It’s absolutely gorgeous. ‘ I know once the restaurant’s back up, they’ll be back, everybody will be back.’ Margaret Hillman, of Washington Township, Burlington County, deck manager for nine years, and diner every Sunday since 1984

 

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‘We went there for our ‘ first wedding anniversary, and we were expecting a baby. We thought it was very romantic, that’s why we picked it. ‘ It was a really happy memory.’ Alyce Parker, lifelong area resident, married 24 years.

 

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‘The place has so much to say because it has so much history. And so many families, full families, were either employed there or frequented there for so long that it’s a sad thing to say goodbye to. That fascinated me, that the place had that kind of longevity.’ Alesia Shute, previous owner, still a regular

 

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‘All the local people that you know are there. It’s a good place to go to socialize and talk to people because, you know, we live in the woods.’ Rita Riek, Sweetwater resident and weekly restaurant patron for 32 years

 

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‘Our customers through the years have become some of our best friends. ‘ It was like going to a funeral.’ Kathy Gitto, waitress for 20 years, on the scene of the fire Monday morning

 

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‘Where are the guys going to have their afternoon beer?’ Cathy Egan, banquet manager for five years, on the regulars

 

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‘We went there ‘ three or four times a year. I don’t recall ever having a bad dining experience. You can’t beat the setting: the rustic nature of it, the location of it.’

 

Jim Walsh, retired U.S. Postal Service employee in South Carolina, who lived in Little Egg Harbor Township for 18 years

 

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‘Friends of ours didn’t know where Green Creek is, but they knew where the Sweetwater Casino is. Everybody knows this place.’ Bill Schaefer and Vera Stea, of Green Creek, Washington Township, who kayaked to the scene of the blaze

 

E-mail Emily Previti: EPreviti@pressofac.com