"Jack in the Box, home of the ping pong ball-shaped mascot, turns 75 this week on Saturday, Feb. 21. The first restaurant opened on Feb. 21, 1951 at 6270 El Cajon Blvd. in San Diego, near San Diego State University. It was founded by a former undergraduate, Robert O. Peterson. The chain has grown to about 2,135 restaurants in 21 states, according to a recent news release, but remains based in San Diego."
"Southern California was a hotbed of creativity when it came to fast food in the second half of the 20th century. Jack in the Box's claim to fame was pioneering the drive-thru, a feat that won it a place in the Smithsonian Museum of American History. "Ever since we were founded in 1951, we really were a brand that was rooted in innovation," said Sheena Dougher, vice president of marketing for the chain."
"Although Peterson transferred from San Diego State to UCLA, where he graduated with a degree in business, he returned to his hometown and opened his first drive-in 1941. It was called Oscar's, after his father's name and his middle name. His career was interrupted by World War II and he was called into active duty in the U.S. Navy."
Jack in the Box opened its first restaurant on Feb. 21, 1951 at 6270 El Cajon Blvd. in San Diego and was founded by Robert O. Peterson. The chain is based in San Diego and has grown to about 2,135 restaurants in 21 states, with headquarters north of the original location. The company pioneered the drive-thru and earned recognition at the Smithsonian Museum of American History. Marketing vice president Sheena Dougher characterized the brand as rooted in innovation. The company built its identity through drive-thru service, memorable advertising campaigns, and menu items such as tacos. Peterson previously operated a drive-in called Oscar's and served in the U.S. Navy.
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