The Historical Society of Greater Lansing and Kewpee are sponsoring the appearance of Gary Flinn the author of the new book, ‘Kewpee: A Mity Nice History,” 2-4 p.m., Friday, August 4 at 118 Washington Sq., Lansing.

Flinn will cover the 100 history of Kewpee and sign copies of his new book which will be available for sale. Food service will be available.

The Lansing Kewpee is oldest operating Kewpee in the chain which at one time topped 400 locations.

Lansing area fans of Kewpee and its signature Olive Burger will recall the restaurant’s previous locations on Shiawassee St., in East Lansing and on South Pennsylvania.

The Lansing Kewpee is now operated by Autumn Weston, the fourth-generation owner and she is one of only two people who know the ingredients of the secret Olive sauce.

Kewpee originated in Flint, Michigan in 1923 and was started by Samuel Blair who like many entrepreneurs led a colorful life including a late in life marriage to a woman who was 50 years younger. The marriage lasted only a short time perhaps precipitated by Blair taking his previous wife on the honeymoon with them. The Flint locations were renamed Halo Burger in the 1960s.

Blair is credited with creating the store’s slogan: “a pickle on the top makes your heart go flippity flop.”