Once upon a time, in the heart of a small but growing town called Glenview, there was a man named Edwin Stanton Jackman. A successful steel magnate with a deep love for his community, Jackman believed in giving back in meaningful ways. In 1917, he commissioned a special fountain, not just for beauty, but as a gift to the children of the town he called home. Perched proudly atop the fountain was a bear—strong, steadfast, and watching over the community like a guardian. The fountain quickly became a cherished symbol, not just of Glenview, but of Jackman’s spirit. It was a place where the town’s children could gather, a place where everyone could pause for a moment of refreshment. The bear wasn’t just an object; it was a piece of the village’s soul, embodying generosity, community, and a sense of belonging.

As time passed, the bear continued to stand proudly, moving with the fountain to different spots around town. Even as the world around it changed, the bear remained a constant, silently witnessing the growth of Glenview and its people. Eventually, the bear found its home in Jackman Park, where it stands today, a symbol of endurance and care. Jackman himself passed away in 1927, but his gift to the town lived on, reminding everyone of the legacy of giving and the importance of community.

Now, Jack the Bear’s journey has brought him to Jackman & Co., where his spirit continues to live on. We named our restaurant after him to honor not just a symbol of Glenview, but the very soul of the town—warm, welcoming, and ever-present. Just like Jackman’s fountain, Jack the Bear has become a place of gathering, a sign of generosity, and a beacon of hospitality.

At Jackman & Co., we are more than just a restaurant. We are a gathering place, built on the same values that Edwin Jackman held dear: community, connection, and a sense of belonging. Jack the Bear’s legacy is woven into the very fabric of what we stand for. His journey has led him here, to our doors, where we continue to honor the spirit of Glenview and the warmth that has defined this town for over a century.

So, when you step into Jackman & Co., know that you’re not just stepping into a restaurant. You’re stepping into the heart of a story that spans generations—a story of giving, of community, and of one bear that continues to watch over us all.

Welcome to our table. Welcome to Jack’s journey.