There is something special about the Broken Spoke.
"This is a place that will feed your soul literally... There is no place in the whole wide world like this," says Stephanie Crow.
She's worked there for forty-five years and is a friend of the White family, who own the legendary dancehall.
Opened in November 1964, Austinite James White hand-built the beloved honky-tonk located in South Austin. More than half a century later, the Spoke has turned into a Texas landmark.
Known for its authentic Western music, the dancehall has hosted many country music icons over the years.
Listing the many greats who have performed at the Broken Spoke, Crow mentions, "Bob Wills, Dolly Parton, anybody who could actually play a two-step, [he was] kind of picky by his bands. George Strait of course." Not to mention, country music icons Garth Brooks and Willie Nelson have also performed there. In fact, in 1967, James White booked an up-and-coming Willie Nelson for $800.
Almost two years ago the legendary James White passed, but his impact is still greatly felt in the Austin area.
Crow said, "I’ve never met a man that made such a difference. He had one simple dream, and he made it happen. He paved the way for Austin music. Everybody that is here is here because of him."
After White’s passing, many wondered about the future of the institution. Just days after White died several people came to visit the Spoke fearing it could be their last time there. However, the White family continues to live out James’ dream.
His wife, Annetta, and his two daughters, Terri and Genny White, all do their best to help out and keep the business running. Annetta now owns the establishment and makes sure that all the bands performing play two-step and not rock n' roll.
Miguel Loca, the Broken Spoke cook for twenty four-years, says, "Annetta tries really hard to keep this place going."
Terri White is the longtime dance instructor at the Spoke.
With so many people moving to Austin, people may wonder how business is going for the old institution.
Loca says that on weekends they see "300-400 people." When asked about his legendary chicken fried steaks, he says that locals and newcomers should all try it out. "Anytime you want to come out, just come to the Broken Spoke," he said.
In an effort to preserve Austin's history, some people are pushing for the Broken Spoke to stay forever.
On November 3rd, Austin City Council approved a resolution initiating historic zoning for the dancehall. The zoning would “provide permanent protection to the structure and the operations of the venue." The Spoke hopes to receive a historic marker by April.