A Cracker Barrel restaurant in East Windsor, Connecticut, recently came under fire after a customer noticed what appeared to be “nooses” hanging from the ceiling as part of the store’s decorations. The restaurant chain has since apologized, admitting that the oversight was “completely unacceptable” and promising to take immediate corrective action.
The controversy began when local resident Alfonso Robinson tweeted photos of the cords, writing, “Someone at Cracker Barrel in East Windsor needs to explain why there are nooses on the ceiling.” The images quickly went viral, sparking outrage and calls for accountability. Cracker Barrel later clarified that the objects were not nooses but old electrical cords attached to an antique soldering iron, part of the restaurant’s long-standing vintage décor. Still, the company agreed the resemblance was inappropriate and removed the item the same day.
In response to the incident, community activist Keren Prescott of PowerUp-Manchester met with the restaurant’s manager, Mark Smith. Their conversation, she said, was “positive and constructive.” Smith explained that the antique cord had been on display for 22 years without complaint but acknowledged that different perspectives could bring new awareness. Prescott praised his willingness to listen, noting, “As a white man, he might not view certain things the same way a Black person would.”
Cracker Barrel has since pledged to review its décor policies companywide, emphasizing its goal of creating “a welcoming and inclusive environment” in every location. In a statement, the company expressed gratitude to the customer who brought the issue to light and reiterated that the restaurant’s heritage-themed decorations should never compromise respect or sensitivity. “We’re rooted in hospitality,” the statement read, “and when we fall short, we move quickly to make it right.”
