About Us > History of Hi Point Steak House
A Family Tradition
History is much in evidence at Hi Point Steak House, and the traditions of our founding are still honored today. These include rigorous attention to quality, personal service, and a neighborly warmth that is rarely found in food service establishments today.
Hi Point Steak House has been owned and operated by the Erickson family since 1952. The restaurant was purchased by Robert (Bob) Erickson from the Pickle Nolan family. Leaving the family farm, Bob Erickson moved his family from Blue Mounds, eight miles to the east, to Ridgeway. A Hi Point legend has it that Bob’s young son, Leif, was overlooked in the hubbub of the move and left behind. Neighbors stopped by to find Leif after the last load had gone, and they brought him to Ridgeway. Perhaps that early experience explains why Leif has stayed put ever since.
The Next Generation
Leif Erickson took over operations in 1973, and he and his wife Melanie still oversee every aspect of Hi Point Steak House today.
The original Hi Point Steak House was destroyed in a fire on February 7, 1975. Although the damage was severe, no one was hurt and Leif was determined to rebuild. The restaurant reopened seven months and 13 days later, larger in size and with updated facilities.
Pride in Our Heritage
On the west wall of the dining room, there hangs a large, framed Norwegian Coat of Arms. This piece was hand-woven by Leif’s grandmother, Thora Erickson, and is Leif’s family crest. She made and dyed her own yarn for this project, which makes the beautiful colors even more remarkable. Started in Norway and completed in America, this labor of love took Thora 40 years to complete. It is a symbol of the pride and attention to detail that guests also find at the Hi Point Steak House.