Out and About

Closed Bill Ellis Barbecue restaurant, a Wilson landmark, sold after 2 years

The land and property of Bill Ellis Barbecue, a Wilson landmark that closed more than two years ago, has been sold, an auctioneer confirmed to WRAL News on Thursday.

Posted Updated

By
Jessica Patrick
, WRAL multiplatform producer
WILSON, N.C. — The land and property of Bill Ellis Barbecue, a Wilson landmark that closed more than two years ago, has been sold, an auctioneer confirmed to WRAL News on Thursday.

The large restaurant on Downing Street was open for almost 65 years and a staple in the Wilson community. Bill Ellis, the longtime owner of Bill’s, died in February 2017 after suffering complications related to a broken hip, according to family members. He was 83.

Bill's and more than 20 other properties listed in the Bill Ellis Real Estate Auction were sold by House Auction Company and Stone Auction and Realty, Walter House, owner of House Auction Co., confirmed.

“Bill Ellis made a legend out of that barbecue restaurant, and people came from a long way away to eat there,” said House. “A smart entrepreneur in the food service business could do that again.”

Bill's restaurant was bought by Cashcow Properties LLC from Oklahoma. No specific plans were announced.

 Credits 

Copyright 2024 by Capitol Broadcasting Company. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.