Spanky’s River Street, home of the original chicken finger, will be kicking off its 40th year in business with a December 16 celebration to acknowledge and honor employees and patrons, past and present. Those with memories of Spanky’s are asked to share photos and stories in advance of the event by emailing them to [email protected].

“Our December celebration will launch an entire year of specials and memories of Spanky’s previous 40 years,” said Ansley Williams, founder. “We’re looking forward to getting the party started by saying ‘thank you’ to those who have made us so successful.”

Spanky’s River Street began 40 years ago with a dream hatched by brothers Dusty and Alben Yarbrough and Ansley Williams, all Thomaston, Ga. natives. They opened the original Spanky’s restaurant in December 1976 with the idea of selling half-pound burgers and pizza.

Culinary history was made when Alben insisted on having a chicken sandwich on the menu. The only problem was the bird was bigger than the bun. To get it to fit, the edges had to be trimmed off. Alben took the trimmings, tossed them in a special seasoned breading, and fried it up to a golden delicious treat. Right then and there, the original chicken finger was born.

The December 16 celebration will run from 5 until 10 p.m. at 317 E. River Street, Savannah, 31401.