Early Life of the Sims Family
The story of Allen Sims starts with his father, Eugene “Dixie” Sims. Dixie was born on April 14, 1882, in Humboldt, Tennessee. He came to Chicago at age 17, arriving in Sycamore in 1899.
After establishing himself as a nationally renowned boxer from 1900-1911, Dixie settled in Sycamore, marrying Arder Motley on August 21, 1904.
After his boxing career, Dixie built a restaurant and grocery store at 512 North California in 1915, which became the famous “Dixie Inn.” The inventory found in the archives provides a rare glimpse into a black-owned business in the early 20th century.
Allen Sims’ Upbringing and Education
Allen Sims was born to Eugene and Arder Sims in 1905 in Humboldt, Tennessee, where Arder resided in Allen’s early years. The family moved to Sycamore around 1906.
Allen attended Sycamore schools and became the first black male graduate of Sycamore High School in 1924. He was known locally for his singing talents, leading the boys and girls choirs at the Tennessee school where he later taught.
During summer breaks, Sims attended classes at Northwestern University. He married Fannie Springs while living in Tennessee before eventually returning to Sycamore.
Later Life and Legacy
After Eugene “Dixie” Sims passed away in 1959, Allen and Fannie took over the family restaurant. They renamed it “Fannie’s Dixie Inn” after Fannie assumed sole ownership following Allen’s untimely death in 1952 at age 46.
Fannie became a prominent figure in the community herself, serving on various local committees and boards. When she died in 1978, Fannie’s obituary noted she had owned and operated the restaurant for 33 years.
