RUTHIE COLLIER STEWART

While the relationship could sometimes be considered contentious, Ruthie’s brusque wit and honest character became legendary and forever linked with Nick’s. “Ruthie stories” can be heard throughout the country from alumni who have never forgotten her over the years. She received a proclamation from Mayor Frank McCloskey; and, in her honor, Nick’s created the Wilma Ruth Collier Jackass Award for those customers designated a “Ninny Headed Clodpate with permanent access to the nearest exit.”

According to The College of Beer: The Story of Nick’s English Hut, written by Bill Weaver, waitresses viewed Ruthie as an inspiration, “as someone who lives within her means, never loses her sense of personal value as a human being and who never gets pushed around.”

On Dec. 22, 1985, Ruth married her high school sweetheart, Harold Stewart, in the Nick’s Attic. Nick’s staff and regulars, both current and former, participated in the celebration.