"J. Willard Marriott stands in the doorway of his root beer stand in Washington D.C., forerunner of what is today the multi-billion dollar, international Marriott Corporation. Marriott -- the most diversified company in the nation's food service/lodgin/leisure services industry -- celebrates its 50th Anniversary on May 21, 1977. At the age of 76, Mr. Marriott remains active as Chairman of the Board of Directors. Mrs. Marriott, who worked with him behind the counter of this first "Hot Shoppe," also continues as Vice President and a Director. Their fist employee, Robert Smice, is pictured here in the window."

Photo shows "J. Willard Marriott stands in the doorway of his root beer stand in Washington D.C., forerunner of what is today the multi-billion dollar, international Marriott Corporation. Marriott -- the most diversified company in the nation's food service/lodgin/leisure services industry -- celebrates its 50th Anniversary on May 21, 1977. At the age of 76, Mr. Marriott remains active as Chairman of the Board of Directors. Mrs. Marriott, who worked with him behind the counter of this first "Hot Shoppe," also continues as Vice President and a Director. Their fist employee, Robert Smice, is pictured here in the window."