Irvine

Taco Bell's Original Stand Moves to Home Base in Irvine

Hundreds rallied on social media to "Save Taco Bell Numero Uno" and they listened.

​After a 45-mile journey towed by a big rig from its original spot in Downey, the first Taco Bell taco stand moved to the home base in Irvine, in the words of the company, relocating the world's first Taco Bell.

After threats of demolition that were thwarted by a successful social media campaign, crews raised the Taco Bell from its 53-year-old foundation and moved it through through the streets of Southern California on Thursday night.

In 1962, Glen Bell opened "Taco Bell Numero Uno" in Downey -- and the taco stand, which measures no more than 400 square feet, became the starting gate of the popular chain, home to the Double Decker Taco Supreme, the XXL Grilled Stuffed Burrito, the Chalupa and other quick Mexican-style items.

The original stand closed down in 1986, but it stayed on the vacant lot until new development plans threatened demolition. Preservation organizations, such as the Downey Conservancy, and even Taco Bell itself jumped to save the historical landmark from its demise.

"Taco Bell Numero Uno" is now safe at the chain's headquarters -- watch the video above see it roll down the streets to its new home in Irvine.

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