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A resolution commending and honoring the life and legacy of Jack Cawthon.
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WHEREAS, Jack Cawthon, businessman, and founder of Jack’s Bar-B-Que passed away on October 21, 2026, at the age of 80; and
WHEREAS, Jack Cawthon was born in Franklin, Tennessee and learned the food business through his work at the Nashville City Club; and
WHEREAS, after getting his start, Jack Cawthon launched Jack’s Catering in 1976. He initially served a variety of foods but threw himself into mastering barbeque after positive feedback from customers; and
WHEREAS, in 1991, Jack Cawthon opened Jack’s Bar-B-Que on the corner of Broadway and First Avenue, becoming one of the first family-friendly business owners to reinvest in downtown Nashville; and
WHEREAS, three years later, Jack’s moved to its iconic home at 416 Broadway. At this location Jack Cawthon placed its iconic neon sign with three flying pigs; and
WHEREAS, the restaurant’s success led to two more locations and reviews in USA Today, New York Times, L.A. Times, and Southern Living.
WHEREAS, due in large part to Jack’s, in 2014, Travel + Leisure named Nashville the best barbecue city in the country; and
WHEREAS, Jack Cawthon was known to be an ambassador for Nashville and a supporter of fellow pitmasters in the barbecue community; and
WHEREAS, Jack Cawthon believed in Nashville and believed in Broadway. Through Jack's Bar-B-Que, he was among the pioneers that grew Broadway into the destination it is now; and
WHEREAS, aside from his barbeque, Jack Cawthon was known for his hard work, kindness, vision, and welcoming nature.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE METROPOLITAN GOVERNMENT OF NASHVILLE AND DAVIDSON COUNTY:
Section 1. That the Metropolitan Council hereby goes on record as the life and legacy of Jack Cawthorn.
Section 2. That this Resolution shall take effect from and after its adoption, the welfare of The Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County requiring it.