Diner News and History

Today in Diner History. . .

2010-08-14T21:51:00.002-04:00

On this date in 2007 the Victory Diner was moved from 1781 Richmond Road to storage at the Parks Department in Midland Beach, Staten Island, NY. Prior to this move it had been there since 1964. Here's a picture of this 1940s Kullman Challenger model diner at its Richmond Road location. The Staten Island Advance posted a video of the diner moving.

The diner's appeared in Easy Money and The Education of Max Bickford.

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MN - LANESBORO. Spud Boy Diner

2010-04-14T19:52:00.007-04:00

Spud Boy
Photo by flickr pro ellenmac and
appears here under Creative Commons

Over the years how many have started a project only to wonder what they got themselves into. Diners were manufactured a certain way, so taking one apart and putting it back together sounds simple enough. Though it isn't until the first nail is pulled, a porcelain enamel steel panel is removed, the Formica ceiling panels are taken down, or a structural item is inspected, that unexpected challenges may arise.

Very few people have hands-on experience performing multiple diner restorations. Steve Harwin is well known in the diner restoration industry. He's taken on diners that some wouldn't touch and brought them back to life. On his oh-diners.com website there are examples of diners he's worked on. Gordon Tindall is another person on this list.

In case you haven't followed Gordon's work, take a look at the Youtube videos Joseph Dupont posted, chronicling the restoration of the Spud Boy Diner. In late 2008 the diner moved from Towanda, Pennsylvania to Lanesboro, Minnesota. The finishing touches are being performed and it is expected to open this summer.

The Post-Bulletin posted an article today about Gordon, his wife Val and the Spud Boy Diner. Seeing the diner as it progressed through the restoration is a testament to the hard work and determination of Gordon and Val. We commend their efforts and look forward to visiting the diner.

We'll write more here as information about the diner becomes available.

MA - North Falmouth. Tin Man Diner

2010-03-11T16:04:00.004-05:00

We often get visitors to this site as the result of Google searches. It's good to see people are searching diners for sale. We recommend the buyadiner.com web site.

Another search term we often see is for the Tin Man Diner. In the past we've written a number of blog posts about the diner. We thought our readers would be interested in a Cape Cod Times article posted today. This particular article is about Susan Kettell Lind, daughter of Barbara Lind, the diner's operator. Please read the article and keep her in your thoughts and prayers.

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Tin Man Diner
70 County Rd.
North Falmouth, MA
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Related blog entries

We invite you to visit our flickr diner photostream.

Candacy A. Taylor

2010-03-10T12:38:00.004-05:00

Tomorrow, March 11, 2010, Candacy A. Taylor the author of, "Counter Culture: The American Coffee Shop Waitress" will be at the San Carlos Library. We last tweeted about her book on December 7, 2009.

During February over on twitter we encouraged everyone to vote for her proposal at the Pepsi Refresh Project Grants for Education. Her proposal was to create a multimedia exhibit on the American Diner Waitress. Although the voting ended February 28th, we encourage those of you not knowing about this to take a look at her proposal.

For more information about Candacy A. Taylor, why not join her tomorrow, 7PM at the San Carlos Library, 610 Elm Street, San Carlos, CA. Or visit . . .

website: http://www.taylormadeculture.com/Taylor_Made_Site/HOME.html
blog: http://counterculturewaitress.wordpress.com/
Amazon: http://bit.ly/99fuho

For our latest updates, we encourage you to follow us on twitter.com/DinerHistory.

Today In Diner History. . .

2010-02-08T10:00:00.002-05:00

On this date in 1938, Allendale, New Jersey resident, Irving B. Cooper received patent number 2107854 entitled "Vehicle Body Construction." Though he filed on April 21, 1937 it wasn't until the following February when the patent was issued. This patent specifies an arched floor, preventing the floor from sagging once everything is installed. It also mentions the numerous other structural improvements. The entire patent and accompanying drawings may be viewed on the Google Patent website.

According to page 239 of "American Diner Then & Now" by Richard J. S. Gutman, Mr. Cooper, "...was vice president in charge of design and production for the diner division" of Paterson Vehicle Company. This is the company that built diners under the name Silk City Diner.

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In the News - Harley's Diner

2010-02-05T13:00:00.007-05:00

Harley's Diner
Photo by flickr pro msmail and appears here
under Creative Commons

update: 2/5/2010 This article was originally posted back on December 20, 2008.

The Diner is expected to reopen as Little Richards Diner on March 1st, under the ownership of Ed and Ann Richards. Read the entire Fairbanks Daily News Miner article. See additional flickr pictures here.

12/20/2008
Harley's Diner MC was designed for the extremes of North Pole, Alaska. It's comprised of three modules built in 2007 by Frey-Moss Structures of Atlanta, Georgia. Jan Thacker, writing for the Fairbanks Daily News-Miner reports current economic conditions, not the weather has closed it for the winter. It's expected to reopen spring 2009.

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Currently Closed
Harley's Diner MC
2698 Hurst Rd.
North Pole, AK
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We invite you to visit our flickr diner photostream.

MA - WORCESTER. 5 & Diner

2010-01-31T08:00:00.001-05:00

5 & Diner,© 2010 DinerHistory.com
file photo

We received a tweet from the 5 & Diner (@5andDiner) restaurant. This coming Wednesday, February 3, 2010, "Diner Wednesday" will be in Worcester. You can catch Doug "VB" Goudie at the diner starting at 6AM on Boston's Fox25.

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5 & Diner
525 Lincoln St.
Worcester, MA
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We invite you to visit our flickr diner photostream.

RI - PROVIDENCE. Liberty Elm Diner

2010-01-19T11:21:00.004-05:00

Liberty Elm Diner,© 2008 DinerHistory.com
file photo

Back in July of 2009 we wrote about our visit to the Elm. We've visited this 1947 Worcester Lunch Car Company built diner a number of times in the past. However on that day's visit, Food Network's "Diners, Drive-ins and Dives" producers had sent a video crew to the diner.

We wondered what brought "DDD" as it is sometimes referred to Providence? Was it this diner's seasonal incorporation of locally grown ingredients into daily specials? The diverse music performed during "Americana Breakfast Club" on Sundays? Or the free WiFi? Tune in February 22, 2010, when the episode airs on "Diners, Drive-ins and Dives." Though the program starts at 10PM Eastern, check your local listings for your region and times when it will be on again.

Visit the diner's facebook page for more information about a viewing party that is in the works. Better yet, stop by today and let them know the people at DinerHistory.com sent you.

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Liberty Elm Diner
777 Elmwood Ave.
Providence, RI
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Put January 20, 2010 on Your Calendar

2010-01-17T21:00:00.003-05:00

Miss Mendon Diner
© 2008, DinerHistory.com file photo

We took this photo during today's visit to the diner. The grand opening of the Miss Mendon Diner is set for 6AM on January 20, 2010. We are working on an article about our impressions of the diner from today's visit.

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Miss Mendon Diner
16 Uxbridge Rd.
Mendon, MA 01756
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We invite you to visit our flickr diner photostream.

MA - WORCESTER. Miss Worcester Diner

2010-01-12T10:52:00.010-05:00

Miss Worcester Diner
Photo by flickr pro Elizabeth Thomsen and
appears here under Creative Commons

This past weekend, the Learning Channel (TLC) sent a film crew to shoot scenes at the Miss Worcester Diner. "Miss Woo" as it's affectionately known, was built right across the street in 1948 at Worcester Lunch Car Company (which has been closed for many years). It is no stranger to the spotlight and will be the subject of an episode in the TLC series "American Eats"

Worcester Telegram & Gazette staffer Priyanka Dayal wrote about the event. The entire article is available here. Stay tuned as we'll post information in the sidebar regarding air dates.

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Miss Worcester Diner
300 Southbridge St.
Worcester, MA
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We invite you to visit our flickr diner photostream.

CT - MILFORD. Milford Diner

2009-12-10T10:37:00.009-05:00

Former Milford Diner
DinerHistory.com file photo

The Milford Diner, a mid-1940's Silk City manufactured diner has been closed for several years. Past discussions of tearing it down seem to have faded. A group has formed to restore the diner. Though it may not reopen as a restaurant.

On Sunday, December 20, 2009, there will be an event to raise funds for the diner's restoration. It will be held at the nearby Daniel Street Cafe. The event will be held from 4PM to 7PM. At 5PM the movie, "A Christmas Story" will be shown. For more details visit the Collected Stories Bookstore website.

Let them know you read about the event on DinerHistory.com.

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closed
Milford Diner
13 New Haven Ave.
Milford, CT

Daniel Street Cafe
21 Daniel St.
Milford, CT
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We invite you to visit our flickr diner photostream.

VA - Harrisonburg. L & S Diner

2009-12-04T16:23:00.012-05:00

L & S Diner
Photo by flickr pro Kevin Steele and
appears here under Creative Commons

One year went by so quickly. Back on this date in 2008, the L & S reopened its doors. This time it was under the operation of Linda Raines.

Although it isn't a classic manufactured diner, it includes several features reminiscent of those many associate with diners. Frank Lee and Ike Simmons were the first owners. It was designed by local architect D'Earcy Davis and built in 1947.

At sixty-two years of age, it doesn't look ready for retirement. Stop in and let them know you read about the diner at DinerHistory.com.

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L & S Diner
255 N. Liberty St.
Harrisonburg, VA
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We invite you to visit our flickr diner photostream.

In the News - Welcome Diner

2009-12-04T13:34:00.007-05:00

the welcome diner, phoenix
Photo by flickr pro calamity_hane and
appears here under Creative Commons

KSAZ, the Phoenix, Arizona FOX television affiliate is reporting both a car and truck crashed through the outdoor seating area and into the diner. Though it would appear the diner has escaped damage.

At the time of this incident, the 1940's "Little Chef" model Valentine diner was closed.

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Welcome Diner
924 East Roosevelt St.
Phoenix, AZ
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We invite you to visit our flickr diner photostream.

In the News - Classic Diner

2009-12-04T10:25:00.009-05:00

Rocket Diner fo sho
Photo by flickr pro bradjward and appears
here under Creative Commons

According to the Journal-Courier reporter Jake Russell, the Classic Diner abruptly closed earlier this week. Agim Selimi had operated the diner for about the past five years.

Prior to this Starlite built diner operating as the Classic, it was c. 2000 known as the Rocket Diner (pictured at left). Notice the quilted roof line with horizontal red and blue stripes. Below the windows, are are stripes of red, separated by those of chrome and then blue. The ends of the diner are accentuated with stainless and a full glass block corner. This diner has the same exterior as the Remember When Diner, in Rochester, New Hampshire. We last visited the Remember When, a 2001 Starlite in August 2008.

At almost ten years old, Mr. Russell's article mentions it's available for $650,000. The entire article is available here.

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closed
Classic Diner
100 Comfort Dr.
Jacksonville, IL

We invite you to visit our flickr diner photostream.

In the News - Trolley Car Diner

2009-12-02T21:53:00.006-05:00

Trolley Car Diner
Photo by flickr pro gailf548 and appears
here under Creative Commons

Just recently we posted a "tweet" about the planned next location of the Germantown Ave. favorite, the Trolley Car Diner. A different article is online regarding the diner's receipt of the "'My Block, My Business' Advertising Competition's grand prize." Look for the diner to be featured during Entrepreneurship Week, mid-April of 2010.

We last visited the Trolley Car, a 1950s Mountain View built diner about a year ago. Though we've chosen to feature gailf548's picture here. We encourage you to take a look at the rest of her flickr photostream too. Also be sure to take a look at the pictures in Schaffner's photostream of the diner at night. Atop the diner is a nice animated neon sign. Better yet, why not visit the diner and tell them the folks at DinerHistory.com sent you.

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Trolley Car Diner
7619 Germantown Ave.
Philadelphia, PA
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We invite you to visit our flickr diner photostream.

In the News - Little Depot Diner

2009-12-02T10:53:00.007-05:00

Little Depot Diner
Photo by flickr pro Elizabeth Thomsen
and appears here under Creative
Commons

Wednesday just wouldn't be Wednesday without Doug "VB" Goudie visiting a diner in Massachusetts. Boston's FOX25 morning segment recently returned after a few months break.

This morning's visit was to the Little Depot Diner in Peabody, MA. During the segment "VB" reminisced with the owners Jim and Judy Miles. Take a look at the video here. Better yet, why not visit them and tell them the folks at DinerHistory.com sent you.

The Little Depot Diner also appeared on Food Network's show "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives." They frequently reair the shows, so check the schedule for Episode DV0712H, "Diners Times Three."

About a year ago, "Diner Wednesday" was at the Nest Diner, in Mattapoisett, MA. We have an archived post about our visit during the segment. The Fox25 video is still online and may be viewed here.

We chose Elizabeth Thomsen's picture from flickr.com to include in our blog post. She has other pictures of the diner posted, so you can compare the exterior changes. We encourage you to take a look at the rest of her photostream too.

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The Little Depot Diner
1 Railroad Ave.
Peabody, MA
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We invite you to visit our flickr diner photostream.

Former Forum Diner - Paramus, NJ

2009-10-17T08:12:00.003-04:00

We received this press release from Michael Perlman and the Committee To Save The Forum Diner.

Committee To Save The Forum Diner
For Immediate Release Contact:

Michael Perlman, Chair & Preservationist
(917) 446-7775
unlockthevault@hotmail.com

CLASSIC “FORUM DINER” FOR SALE:
Effort to Spare “Endangered Species” from Oblivion!

PARAMUS, NJ & NEW YORK (Oct 13, 2009) – A multi-faceted, creative preservation movement is underway by the Committee To Save The Forum Diner, to spare the historic Forum Diner (211 East State Route 4, Paramus, NJ) from demolition, and is calling upon parties of interest to come forward ASAP, and spare this gem from oblivion. Shortly after the diner’s former owners retired in 2007, Kevin Ormes’ Jeep 17 dealership was slated to rise on premise, but has since fell through. As a result, there are more preservation options than before, but time is of the essence for a diner attributed with a “series of firsts.” Reopening and restoring the Forum Diner to its former glory would become a dream come true to devoted fans, on the basis of memories made within its walls and its unique architectural style for a diner. It merits a new lease on life, so future generations can have a chance too.

PRESERVATION OPTIONS (thanks to an agreement with Kevin Ormes):

1. Purchasing the Forum Diner structure at the low cost of $15,000 ($1K per sq ft), in which the buyer would be responsible for rigging costs. All or most of the diner’s 7 sections can be transported elsewhere, and saved along the lines of Preservationist Michael Perlman’s other projects, NYC’s Cheyenne Diner transported to AL in Oct 2009 & NYC’s Moondance Diner to WY in Aug 2007. Rigger Mel Brandt of M&M Rigging, transported over 50 diners countrywide, & took dimensions of the Forum Diner. Also, a deal can be worked out with Al Suwara, who is willing to accommodate anyone seeking land to move the Forum Diner to. He owns a 15 acre property in Cairo, NY with an 800 sq ft frontage on Route 23, a heavily-trafficked main road that leads to Ski Windham and Catskill Park.

2. The Forum Diner at its current property can be purchased for $3.9 million. The diner has a history of great business, which is marked by its convenient location on a major intersection with a school and shops nearby.

3. The Forum Diner can be leased at $55,000/month.

     **For the above options, it is very likely that grants and tax credits are available to help finance future historically-sensitive restoration & renovation work, through the State & National Register of Historic Places.

Forum Diner History:    The Forum Diner is an architectural gem, and rare for 60s style architecture. It was prefabricated by the Fodero Dining Car Co, and was announced that "money was no object" when it came down to detail, shortly after it first opened. Joseph Fodero of Bloomfield, NJ was the mastermind of diner manufacturing (also manufacturing NYC's famed Empire Diner). The Yannitsadis brothers were the original owners of the Forum Diner. The exterior borrows from the Environmental style, and features stainless steel, wrap-around windows, groovy gold frame doors, corner entryway with stone & colored mansard roof, & decorative ornamentation gracing the top. The interior is elegant, featuring fine Greek wood fluted columns & moldings and coffered wooden-paneled walls (rare for a diner), wood ornamentation, recessed areas for chandeliers, etched mirrors with regal logos, stone, curtains, counter & stools with backrests, kitchen out back, terrazzo tiles and wave-patterned terrazzo distinguishing circular wooden booth areas. Pat Fodero, son of Joseph Fodero, came up with the idea of circular booths to seat more patrons per table, and it was first popularized at the Forum Diner. It became the norm to build large to boost business. The interior portrays the Colonial style.

Forum Diner Photos: http://www.flickr.com/gp/8095451@N08/okNvP5 (Can be enlarged by clicking on each photo and then "all sizes" to view small, medium, or large. Some photos appear to be slightly larger, since they were taken with a super wide-angle lens)

Review of Specifications

Address: 211 Route 4 East, Paramus, NJ
Circa 15,000 square feet
10 ft ceilings
Historic/Rare architectural features
Lot size: 2.05
Heat: gas
Parking: 200 spaces
Seats: 220
Property with diner sale price: $3.9 million
Leasing: $55,000/month
Purchasing the structure only: $15,000 one-time fee

      Perlman explains: “Diners are amongst the ‘ultimate public institutions’ which harbor countless memories and bridge the generations. During the 30's - 60's eras, freestanding diners numerously dotted the tri-state area, and brought together individuals of various occupations in a cozy & striking ambiance. Today, they are becoming an endangered species at an alarming rate, and their loss is often most heartfelt. It is essential to preserve & reuse all remaining classic freestanding diners. Despite time constraints, we are committed to doing all we can for a noble cause.” The Committee’s consensus is that “A steady market for such nostalgic gems, coupled by the fact that they were manufactured to move; can ensure a victory for the Forum Diner.”

Parties of interest can contact Committee To Save The Forum Diner Chairman Michael Perlman at unlockthevault@hotmail.com & (917) 446-7775, and all information will be relayed to the property owner.

###

"Diners, Drive-ins and Dives"

2009-10-09T12:53:00.003-04:00

"Tell Me About the Sauce. . ."

We knew the "DDD" crew were off to Alaska after reading Guy Fieri's tweet on the fourth. Yesterday a video was posted on Youtube. It provides an interesting behind the scenes view of day two at Big Daddy's BarB-Q.

Liberty Elm Counter,
© 2009 DinerHistory.com

During this video we recognized several of the crew members. This past July we posted a blog entry about "DDD"'s visit to the Liberty Elm Diner in Providence, RI. While acquiring video, the man in the middle of the photo talked with the Elm's customers. He posed questions which elicited more than a standard one or two word response. And when nearby conversations interfered with their videoing, the Elm's customers were admonished. Everything appeared to go smoothly and it will be interesting to see how the episode comes together. It is expected to air later this year.

Information when Big Daddy's will appear on "DDD" will be posted here as it becomes available.

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Big Daddy's Bar-B-Q
107 Wickersham St.
Fairbanks, AK

A Look Back on . . .

2009-10-01T09:17:00.000-04:00

October
2005
Kullman Industries files for bankruptcy. Assets of the company were later purchased by Kullman Buildings Corp.

2003
Former Miss Newport Diner of Newport, VT moved to storage in Salisbury, MA. This picture from September 2009 finds the diner in Mendon, MA. We'll write about its opening as the Miss Mendon when more information becomes available.

2001
Former China Buddha of Wayne, PA moved to Buffalo, NY. It later reopened as the Lake Effect Diner.

Mt. Sinai Heritage Diner - Mt. Sinai, NY

2009-09-25T11:44:00.006-04:00

Recently flickr pro Heritage Diner Restaurant added us as a flickr contact. In looking through their photostream, we noticed the diner appears to have been renovated. A Google query for more information provided an interesting result from InsiderPages.com. This exterior picture was taken prior to renovation with the caption, "The Mount Sinai Heritage Diner Established 2002."

Traditional factory built diners had a history of no two being exactly alike. After seeing this flickr picture, it reminded us of another diner--the Valley Diner Restaurant in Derby, Connecticut. It underwent a renovation by DeRaffele of New Rochelle, New York. On March 20, 2009, the Connecticut Post published an article about the Valley's renovation. As of this blog entry it is still available online.

We already had an entry in our diner database for the Mount Sinai Diner. Though we've entered Mount Sinai Heritage Diner as a new record. Our Garmin nRoute map had neither diner, so we plotted its location for a future visit. If anyone has information about this diner or its history, please let us know.

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Mount Sinai Heritage Diner
275 Route 25A
Mount Sinai, NY
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In the News - Former Serro's Diner

2009-09-16T21:00:00.006-04:00

Yesterday's Architectural Record mentions the Lincoln Highway Heritage Corridor (LHHC) organization. Charles Linn talks with their executive director, Olga Herbert about the Lincoln Highway Experience project.

The diner will be a central feature of the planned museum. Serro's is a late 1930s Jerry O'Mahony Dining Car Company diner. It's a rare "Monarch" model. See Agilitynut's website for pictures of Fegely's Reading Diner a similar diner. The Northampton Diner in Northville, NY was open when we visited it about three years ago. Fegely's and Northampton both have similar interiors and retain original elements. Our visit to Fegely's was on a diner trip taken at the beginning of this year.

Serro's last operated in the Greensburg, Pennsylvania area as the Willow Diner. Closing in the early 1990s, it was moved to storage. In 2003 it was moved again and to a different storage site in Pennsylvania.

Restoration of this diner is an exciting and ambitious project. We'll post more information about the diner and the museum as it becomes available.

The entire Architectural Record may be read by clicking here.

Cheyenne Diner - NYC (Part 2)

2009-09-16T08:00:00.001-04:00

We received another email from Michael Perlman and the Committee To Save The Cheyenne Diner. This press release states the diner's second section will move tonight.

On flickr, Rego-Forest Preservation Council has a photostream of recent diner pictures. The Eater website has a view where the first half once was.

Committee To Save The Cheyenne Diner
For Immediate Release For NY Media Relations:
Michael Perlman, Chairman & Preservationist
Committee To Save The Cheyenne Diner
(917) 446-7775 (On scene: Calling Preferred)
unlockthevault@hotmail.com

For AL Media Relations:
Patti Miller
(205) 587-5068
historicdiner@hotmail.com
pattikm@hotmail.com

HISTORIC CHEYENNE DINER TO CONTINUE LONG-AWAITED TRANSPORT TO ALABAMA ON SEPT 16, 2009 (2ND SECTION OF DINER)

NEW YORK, NY (Sept 16, 2009) – NYC’s historic Cheyenne Diner (411 9th Ave & 33rd St) will be granted a new lease on life, and began its long-awaited move to Alabama on the evening of Monday, Sept 14, 2009, and the 2nd section will be transported on Wed, Sept 16th around 11 PM (Call Perlman for time info). Since the Cheyenne’s dimensions are 15 ft x 96 ft (2,000 sq ft), the diner will be transported via flatbed in 2 sections to Alabama, with the expertise of Rigger Mel Brandt of M&M Rigging of PA, who transported 50 diners countrywide (including a role in NY’s historic Moondance Diner to LaBarge, WY in Aug 2007). Over the last few weeks, the concrete surrounding the diner was broken & the diner was cut in half. Devoted patrons, Committee members, and passersby will now have a rare opportunity to witness “history in the making” as hydraulic jacks will be installed underneath the Cheyenne Diner’s 2 sections, rolled forward to the curb on i-beams, and hoisted up onto a flatbed.

On Jan 13, 2009, Committee To Save The Cheyenne Diner, Chairman Michael Perlman, 26 of Forest Hills, NY brokered the deal between Joel Owens of Birmingham, AL and property owner George Papas, after convincing Papas to be receptive based upon the diner’s historic reign. The diner was slated for demolition within the next few weeks, if a buyer willing to transport the diner wasn’t located. Perlman received alternate proposals from potential buyers from Upstate NY, PA, MI, TX, & UT, but it boiled down to first-come, first-serve, and Joel Owens, head of NAIC, an investment group, became the fortunate candidate. On Jan 25, 2009, the iconic Cheyenne Diner neon signs were carefully removed by Paul Signs Inc of Brooklyn, NY. The acquisition of city permits contributed to the 8-month wait since the deal was brokered.

Perlman states: “It is bittersweet that one of the last historic freestanding diners in Manhattan won’t remain close to its roots, but I take pride in knowing that the beloved Cheyenne Diner will not only retire down south for its golden years, but undergo a rebirth thanks to its dedicated owners who think outside of the box, and patrons can reminisce & make new memories in an Art Deco gem. The Committee will be on site to converse with patrons, document the move, & wave adieu to its Manhattan chapter.”

Joel Owens has announced plans to restore the Cheyenne to its 1940s glory with potential additions including a recreated Jay Dee Bakery (98-92 Queens Blvd, Forest Hills, NY), a Cheyenne Diner museum, classic car museum, rebuilt historic theaters, & a special events center. Owens states “This is a dream come true, especially in a state that has no historic freestanding diners. We ultimately plan on creating a small town with a historic feel, so future generations can have a chance to experience mid-century nostalgia, which is being lost.” Alabama Tourism Director, Lee Sentell, states “This has the potential to be a great Alabama destination.”

Backtracking... As Chairman of Committee To Save The Cheyenne Diner, Perlman presented a proposal to property owner George Papas (owner of nearby Skylight Diner & developer for Cheyenne property) on closing day, Sunday, April 6th 2008, and convinced him to work together. A 9-story condo is slated to rise on premise, which marked the end of the diner's 68 year-run for its Manhattan chapter. Perlman a.k.a “Diner-Man” (http://www.observer.com/2008/diner-man-rescue) found ex-owner Mike O'Connell, who planned to transport the diner to Red Hook, but it fell through when it wouldn't fit across the Manhattan Bridge via flatbed, and the next option, transporting it by barge, proved 3 times as costly as traditional figures a year ago.

HISTORY: The Cheyenne Diner is a highlight in terms of its diverse patronage including celebrities i.e. Jerry Lewis & David Letterman, and since it's third to the last streamlined railway car-inspired diner in Manhattan, and a scarcity borough-wide. It was pre-assembled by the Paramount Dining Car Co. in 1940, and known as the Market Diner through '86 after the popular chain operated by the Zelin family. It features a majority of its original &/or distinctive elements. The streamlined façade features vertical and horizontal stainless steel securing bowed colorful enamel panels, wrap-around windows, a curved entryway with glass block, & a reverse channel illuminated neon sign. The interior features a streamlined barrel roof, counter & stools, & Indian tribal coins. The Cheyenne was recently granted 1st prize on NYC-Architecture.com's “Top 10 NY Diners/Restaurants.” Spiros Kasimis was the tenant for approximately two decades.

Perlman explains: “Diners are amongst the ‘ultimate public institutions’ which harbor countless memories and bridge the generations. During the 30's - 60's eras, freestanding diners numerously dotted NYC’s 5 boroughs, and brought together individuals of various occupations in a cozy & striking ambiance. Today, they are becoming an endangered species at an alarming rate, and their loss is often most heartfelt. It is essential to preserve & reuse all remaining classic freestanding diners. Despite time constraints, we are committed to doing all we can for a noble cause.” The Committee’s consensus is that “A steady market for such nostalgic gems, coupled by the fact that they were manufactured to move; can ensure a victory for the Cheyenne Diner.”

PHOTOS:
Cheyenne Diner in operation in May 2007 & April 6, 2008 closing day photos, vintage photos, sign removal photos, & all photos from move to be posted, Courtesy of Preservationist Michael Perlman:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/8095451@N08/sets/72157604354225329/

1941 photo (pan & zoom 3rd in sequence), courtesy of NYPL:
http://digitalgallery.nypl.org/nypldigital/dgkeysearchdetail.cfm?trg=1&strucID=401863&imageID=712065F&word=9th%20avenue%2033rd%20street&s=1¬word=&d=&c=&f=&lWord=&lField=&sScope=&sLevel=&sLabel=&total=14&num=12&imgs=12&pNum=&pos=14

NYC Diner Preservation Record

- Sam Chinita housed in freestanding diner (8th Ave & 19th St), demolished 2000
- River Diner (11th Ave & 37th St), demolished Mar 2004
- Lunchbox Diner (357 West St), restored in 2002, but closed & remains abandoned
- Munson Diner (11th Ave & 49th St) transported to the Catskills in 2005
- Moondance Diner (80 6th Ave) transported to LaBarge, WY in Aug 2007 & reopens in 2009 (Michael Perlman founded the Committee To Save The Moondance Diner in spring 2007, which made him an official NYC preservationist after working with Extell Development, and granting it a new lease on life in LaBarge, WY)
- Staten Island's Victory Diner transported in Aug 2007 to SI's Midland Beach Promenade & reopens in 2009
- Some icons holding onto their own: NYC's Empire Diner (10th Ave & 22nd St), jet-age Market Diner (11th Ave & 43rd St) reopened Dec 2008, Air Line Diner/currently Jackson Hole (Astoria Blvd & 70th St), Square Diner (33 Leonard St near Varick St & W Broadway).

###

Cheyenne Diner Moving

2009-09-13T22:21:00.004-04:00

Here is the press release as received from Michael Perlman, and the Committee To Save The Cheyenne Diner.

Committee To Save The Cheyenne Diner
For Immediate Release For NY Media Relations:
Michael Perlman, Chairman & Preservationist
Committee To Save The Cheyenne Diner
(917) 446-7775 (On scene: Calling Preferred)
unlockthevault@hotmail.com

For AL Media Relations:
Patti Miller
(205) 587-5068
historicdiner@hotmail.com
pattikm@hotmail.com

HISTORIC CHEYENNE DINER TO BEGIN LONG-AWAITED TRANSPORT TO ALABAMA ON SEPT 14, 2009 & WILL UNDERGO FUTURE RESTORATION

NEW YORK, NY (Sept 13, 2009) – NYC’s historic Cheyenne Diner (411 9th Ave & 33rd St) will be granted a new lease on life, and begin its long-awaited move to Alabama on the evening of Monday, Sept 14, 2009 (Call Perlman for time info). Since the Cheyenne’s dimensions are 15 ft x 96 ft (2,000 sq ft), the diner will be transported via flatbed in 2 sections to Alabama, with the expertise of Rigger Mel Brandt of M&M Rigging of PA, who transported 50 diners countrywide (including a role in NY’s historic Moondance Diner to LaBarge, WY in Aug 2007). Over the last few weeks, the concrete surrounding the diner was broken & the diner was cut in half. Devoted patrons, Committee members, and passersby will now have a rare opportunity to witness “history in the making” as hydraulic jacks will be installed underneath the Cheyenne Diner’s 2 sections, rolled forward to the curb on i-beams, and hoisted up onto a flatbed (First section will move on evening of Sept 14th and second section to be announced on Sept 15th or 16th).

On Jan 13, 2009, Committee To Save The Cheyenne Diner, Chairman Michael Perlman, 26 of Forest Hills, NY brokered the deal between Joel Owens of Birmingham, AL and property owner George Papas, after convincing Papas to be receptive based upon the diner’s historic reign. The diner was slated for demolition within the next few weeks, if a buyer willing to transport the diner wasn’t located. Perlman received alternate proposals from potential buyers from Upstate NY, PA, MI, TX, & UT, but it boiled down to first-come, first-serve, and Joel Owens, head of NAIC, an investment group, became the fortunate candidate. On Jan 25, 2009, the iconic Cheyenne Diner neon signs were carefully removed by Paul Signs Inc of Brooklyn, NY. The acquisition of city permits contributed to the 8-month wait since the deal was brokered.

Perlman states: “It is bittersweet that one of the last historic freestanding diners in Manhattan won’t remain close to its roots, but I take pride in knowing that the beloved Cheyenne Diner will not only retire down south for its golden years, but undergo a rebirth thanks to its dedicated owners who think outside of the box, and patrons can reminisce & make new memories in an Art Deco gem. The Committee will be on site to converse with patrons, document the move, & wave adieu to its Manhattan chapter.”

Joel Owens has announced plans to restore the Cheyenne to its 1940s glory with potential additions including a recreated Jay Dee Bakery (98-92 Queens Blvd, Forest Hills, NY), a Cheyenne Diner museum, classic car museum, rebuilt historic theaters, & a special events center. Owens states “This is a dream come true, especially in a state that has no historic freestanding diners. We ultimately plan on creating a small town with a historic feel, so future generations can have a chance to experience mid-century nostalgia, which is being lost.” Alabama Tourism Director, Lee Sentell, states “This has the potential to be a great Alabama destination.”

Backtracking... As Chairman of Committee To Save The Cheyenne Diner, Perlman presented a proposal to property owner George Papas (owner of nearby Skylight Diner & developer for Cheyenne property) on closing day, Sunday, April 6th 2008, and convinced him to work together. A 9-story condo is slated to rise on premise, which marked the end of the diner's 68 year-run for its Manhattan chapter. Perlman a.k.a “Diner-Man” (http://www.observer.com/2008/diner-man-rescue) found ex-owner Mike O'Connell, who planned to transport the diner to Red Hook, but it fell through when it wouldn't fit across the Manhattan Bridge via flatbed, and the next option, transporting it by barge, proved 3 times as costly as traditional figures a year ago.

HISTORY: The Cheyenne Diner is a highlight in terms of its diverse patronage including celebrities i.e. Jerry Lewis & David Letterman, and since it's third to the last streamlined railway car-inspired diner in Manhattan, and a scarcity borough-wide. It was pre-assembled by the Paramount Dining Car Co. in 1940, and known as the Market Diner through '86 after the popular chain operated by the Zelin family. It features a majority of its original &/or distinctive elements. The streamlined façade features vertical and horizontal stainless steel securing bowed colorful enamel panels, wrap-around windows, a curved entryway with glass block, & a reverse channel illuminated neon sign. The interior features a streamlined barrel roof, counter & stools, & Indian tribal coins. The Cheyenne was recently granted 1st prize on NYC-Architecture.com's “Top 10 NY Diners/Restaurants.” Spiros Kasimis was the tenant for approximately two decades.

Perlman explains: “Diners are amongst the ‘ultimate public institutions’ which harbor countless memories and bridge the generations. During the 30's - 60's eras, freestanding diners numerously dotted NYC’s 5 boroughs, and brought together individuals of various occupations in a cozy & striking ambiance. Today, they are becoming an endangered species at an alarming rate, and their loss is often most heartfelt. It is essential to preserve & reuse all remaining classic freestanding diners. Despite time constraints, we are committed to doing all we can for a noble cause.” The Committee’s consensus is that “A steady market for such nostalgic gems, coupled by the fact that they were manufactured to move; can ensure a victory for the Cheyenne Diner.”

PHOTOS:
Cheyenne Diner in operation in May 2007 & April 6, 2008 closing day photos, vintage photos, sign removal photos, & all photos from move to be posted, Courtesy of Preservationist Michael Perlman:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/8095451@N08/sets/72157604354225329/

1941 photo (pan & zoom 3rd in sequence), courtesy of NYPL:
http://digitalgallery.nypl.org/nypldigital/dgkeysearchdetail.cfm?trg=1&strucID=401863&imageID=712065F&word=9th%20avenue%2033rd%20street&s=1¬word=&d=&c=&f=&lWord=&lField=&sScope=&sLevel=&sLabel=&total=14&num=12&imgs=12&pNum=&pos=14

NYC Diner Preservation Record

- Sam Chinita housed in freestanding diner (8th Ave & 19th St), demolished 2000
- River Diner (11th Ave & 37th St), demolished Mar 2004
- Lunchbox Diner (357 West St), restored in 2002, but closed & remains abandoned
- Munson Diner (11th Ave & 49th St) transported to the Catskills in 2005
- Moondance Diner (80 6th Ave) transported to LaBarge, WY in Aug 2007 & reopens in 2009 (Michael Perlman founded the Committee To Save The Moondance Diner in spring 2007, which made him an official NYC preservationist after working with Extell Development, and granting it a new lease on life in LaBarge, WY)
- Staten Island's Victory Diner transported in Aug 2007 to SI's Midland Beach Promenade & reopens in 2009
- Some icons holding onto their own: NYC's Empire Diner (10th Ave & 22nd St), jet-age Market Diner (11th Ave & 43rd St) reopened Dec 2008, Air Line Diner/currently Jackson Hole (Astoria Blvd & 70th St), Square Diner (33 Leonard St near Varick St & W Broadway).
###

Today in Diner History. . .

2009-09-12T05:23:00.002-04:00

On this date, Nicholas Caracasis of Roslindale, MA received Patent number: D116621 for his diner design. The design and accompanying text may be seen here.

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Today in Diner History. . .

2009-09-06T05:41:00.001-04:00

On this date in 2006, Skee's Diner in Torrington, CT was added to the National Park Service's, National Register Of Historic Places. In January 2008, the Northwest Connecticut Chamber of Commerce announced their plans to purchase and relocate the diner. After restoration the structure will serve as a tourist information center.

Our last visit to this 1926 O'Mahony diner was in March 2008.

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Closed
Skee's Diner
589 Main St.
Torrington, CT
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Liberty Elm Diner

2009-08-18T22:16:00.006-04:00

Liberty Elm Diner,
© 2008 DinerHistory.com file photo

Providence, RI
Today the Liberty Elm, a 1947 Worcester Lunch Car Company built diner, celebrates it's second anniversary. Carol "Kip" DeFeciani and Diane “Tink” Horstmyer are the owner/operators of the diner.

Stop in today for some good food and conversation. Be sure to let them know the staff at Diner News and History sent you.

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Liberty Elm Diner
777 Elmwood Ave.
Providence, RI
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In the News - Former Andy's Truckee Diner

2009-08-12T20:46:00.002-04:00

According to several online news reports, a video crew for Apple Computer was on site at the diner yesterday afternoon. Andy's Truckee Diner as it was formerly known, changed its name to "JAX at the Tracks" about the middle of last month.

We noticed this 1940's Kullman built diner was for sale during 2008.

In the News - Red Robin Diner

2009-08-12T20:39:00.003-04:00

Johnson City, New York -- The diner celebrated 50 years today. Read the Press & Sun Bulletin article here.

In the News - Chelsea Royal Diner

2009-08-04T10:14:00.003-04:00

Brattleboro, Vermont

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In today's Brattleboro Reformer, Chris Garofolo reports the owners of the Chelsea Royal purchased a parcel of land next to the diner. It had been slated for commercial development, though plans changed and the land became available.

The article also mentions they are considering building a greenhouse on part of the land. Could this be another diner joining the sourcing food locally trend? On July 29th, WIVB posted an article about Tucker Curtin, owner of the Lake Effect Diner, in Buffalo, New York. He is teaming up with nearby farmers to incorporate their products into the food served at the diner.

Probably most notable are Tod Murphy's efforts. As owner of the Farmers Diner, in Quechee, Vermont, their philosophy is to spend three quarters of every dollar on food within seventy miles of the diner. A streamline 1946 Worcester diner is an integral part of their Quechee restaurant. They recently added another location in Middlebury, however, this location doesn't include a classic diner.

Local food is fresher food. We encourage you to support your local diner and farmers market.

In the News - Former Fegely's Reading Diner

2009-08-03T20:52:00.007-04:00

We last visited this O'Mahony "Monarch" model diner seven months ago at its storage location on Carsonia Avenue in Wyomissing, Pennsylvania. About that time there were claims the diner had fallen into disrepair. When we arrived on site we found that not to be completely accurate. Although the diner's about seventy years old, the interior looked almost factory original. Agilitynut has some nice pictures of it here.

During that visit we had an opportunity to talk with a board member of the Archbury Foundation about the diner and its future. The month prior an article written by David Mekeel appeared online in the Reading Eagle. It mentioned the possibility of the diner moving a short distance away, to the Antietam Valley Recreation and Community Center.

Those plans for the diner have changed. Today WFMZ reports the diner is on the way to Boyertown Museum of Historic Vehicles.

As with any structure of its age, this diner will require a certain level of restoration. We'll post more information here as it becomes available.

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The Archbury Foundation
P.O. Box 6408
Wyomissing, PA 19610

Boyertown Museum of Historic Vehicles
85 S. Walnut Street
Boyertown, PA 19512
(610) 367-2090

In the News - Liberty Elm Diner

2009-07-31T16:51:00.015-04:00

We received an email from the crew at the diner. It's existence as a neighborhood diner, and woman owned small business in Rhode Island is in a precarious position. The diner was one of 1,200 businesses told to close. Taxes, more specifically, past due state sales tax is at the center of the issue. Read the Providence Journal article for more information. We thought we'd include an article from the CNBC website. It ranks Rhode Island 48th, almost dead last in terms of being business friendly.

Liberty Elm Counter,
© 2009 DinerHistory.com

Today, about noon we visited the diner. Upon our arrival, there was a sign at the front steps of the diner. It advised us of taping for the Food Network's show, "Diner's, Drive-Ins & Dives." Judy, the diner's baker, pictured at left told us they were also there this past Tuesday.

For this scene, the crew setup at the end of the counter. Kip, an owner of the diner, took the order from two customers: chowder and turkey sandwiches. We weren't sure what they ordered for a beverage -- maybe coffee milk, the official state drink. Shortly thereafter things moved to the kitchen for shots of Kip preparing their sandwiches. With the sandwiches assembled and plated, the crew shifted back to the end of the counter.

It was time to bring the cups of chowder out. While the crew talked with the customers about the chowder, Kip was at the diner's pass through window. We glanced over at the sandwiches as she awaited the cue to deliver them. First thing we noticed was it looked like watercress underneath the thick sliced toasted Tuscan bread. In the middle was hand carved turkey from the whole bird they roasted at the diner. As an aside, during one of our past visits, Kip told us she picks up the bread from a bakery in Cranston, RI, a short drive from the diner. The Liberty Elm places an emphasis on locally and regionally sourced ingredients. About the watercress? She corrected us, those were pea greens from a local farmer.

While we were there we talked with Kip, and she said the state has accepted partial payment, allowing them to remain open. There is a payment schedule setup, so the diner needs your continued support. Several things are in the works, so it's best to contact them directly.

Mid August marks the second anniversary for the diner under the ownership of Kip and Tink. The diner itself was built in 1947 by the Worcester Lunch Car Company, of Worcester, MA. Though the original diner tag is one of the original items missing, it would display serial #806.

The Food Network segment is expected to air near the end of the year. Stay tuned for details.

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Liberty Elm Diner
777 Elmwood Ave.
Providence, RI
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In the News - Doc's Little Gem Diner

2009-03-16T14:14:00.003-04:00

Online there are two articles about the closure in the Post-Standard. Yesterday's article looks at the history of the diner. Today's is a short three sentence mention that closure looks certain.

We'll post more information here as it becomes available.

In the News - Former Chuck Wagon Diner

2009-03-16T09:10:00.003-04:00

P8180053G-The Salem Diner
Photo by flickr pro mountain_man_ny_2
and appears here under Creative Commons

Today's Daily Gazette reports on the progress to restore and reassemble the diner's iconic neon sign.

As seen in the picture, the sign once served as a beacon to travelers along South Neil Street in Champaign, Illinois. In 1976 the diner closed and this 1956 Mountain View Diner built diner was moved to several other locations in Illinois.

Though it wasn't until late November 2007 that Tom Ketchum brought the diner to Princeton, New York. The diner's restoration has been chronicled in mountain_man_ny_2's flickr photostream.

We'll post more information about the diner and its restoration as it becomes available.

In the News - Floyd's Diner

2009-03-15T09:36:00.003-04:00

This piece of information just came across our desks. Anthony Clark's article in the Gainesville Sun reports Floyd's Diner has been sold.

It's a one sentence mention and we'll post it here.

"Instead, he closed the deal Monday for Floyd’s Diner in High Springs to go to a Michigan family that owns three diners there."

We instantly thought of Jonelle and Randy Roest, owners of Rosie's. Agilitynut's website has a listing and pictures of the diners at "Dinerland" in Rockford, Michigan.

We'll post more information here as it becomes available.

In the News - Salem Diner

2009-03-14T22:42:00.003-04:00

P8180053G-The Salem Diner
Photo by flickr pro galfred
and appears here under Creative Commons

The Salem Diner in Salem, Massachusetts was one of the area restaurants featured in NECN.com's headline story. Colleges and Universities in the North Shore region of Massachusetts have a program where a student may purchase meals from off campus restaurants.

Zoe Elefteriadis, owner of the Salem Diner talks about the program's positive impact on their business. An interior view of the diner may be seen in the video here.

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Salem Diner
70 Loring Ave.
Salem, MA
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Modern Theatre - Boston, MA

2009-03-12T09:40:00.007-04:00

modern theatre
Photo by flickr pro zoezolka and
appears here under Creative Commons

The Suffolk Journal has a mention of Suffolk University's current building project. The University is in the process of disassembling the Modern Theatre's facade and constructing a new building. In its place a multipurpose building will be built, including student housing, a gallery, and a theatre. This website has more about the project.

According to the Cinema Treasures website, the Modern Theatre opened in 1914 and for almost three decades.

Although the Modern Theatre was included in the "Washington Street Theatre District," which was added to the National Register of Historic Places in March of 1979, that didn't guarantee its survival. However, the facade will live on. After a restoration it will be put back into place on the new building.

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In the News - Gracie's Diner

2009-03-12T08:13:00.004-04:00

Wednesday took the morning viewers of WFXT Fox 25 to Webster, Massachusetts. During the segment, Doug "VB" Goudie "Diner Wednesday" talked with Paul and Lisa Fennuchio. This past October marked the third year of ownership for this husband and wife team.

The entire video may be seen here.

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Gracie's Diner
595 S. Main St.
Webster, MA
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In the News - Former Wirebridge Diner

2009-03-09T23:01:00.002-04:00

Larry Garard of the Kennebec Journal & Morning Sentinel wrote about the latest use for the Worcester Lunch Car Company diner. Formerly operating as the Wirebridge Diner, it appeared to be closed during our Maine road trip in 2005.

According to Mr. Garard's article, Philip Robinson purchased the building and renamed it "Robinson's General Store." In this transition, we aren't sure what has changed compared to the renovations we noted during our visit. Next time we are in the area we'll stop in and post a full report.

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New Site

2009-03-08T21:54:00.003-04:00

We have created an archives site for all our posts that don't appear on this page. If you would like access, please email us at staff@dinerhistory.com. Just as any newspaper online, library or institution with archives would require you to sign in, or be a member, so will this new site. We thank you in advance for your understanding.

Winter Diner Picture

2009-03-08T13:51:00.001-04:00

Chelsea Royal Diner 01
Photo by flickr pro Tom Hilton and
appears here under Creative Commons

As we await the first day of spring, here's one last picture of a diner taken during the New England winter of 2009.

The diner was built by the Worcester Lunch Car Company and delivered in 1939.

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Chelsea Royal Diner
487 Marlboro Rd.
West Brattleboro, VT
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A Look Back on March 8th

2009-03-08T10:00:00.000-04:00

We have nothing on file for this day in history. If you know of something diner related happening on this day, please contact us.

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Weekend Roundup

2009-03-07T09:00:00.000-05:00

Time period covered 3/1/2009-3/7/2009

The Weekend Roundup feature draws from some of our postings during this past week. It's purpose is a quick summary and one area of the blog where we usually don't include map links or pictures. At times we may include other items here not making the blog that may be of interest to our readers. We'd like to hear your comments or suggestions.

In this issue

Weekly Summary
Garmin Communicator Update
Farmington Diner
Massachusetts State Quarter Poll Results
Diner News and History Website Happenings

Weekly Summary

This week saw the closing of one diner--Betty's. We noted the closure here.

Otherwise, there were no news reports of any classic diners being demolished, constructed, installed, or moved. Please let us know if we've missed something diner related happening this past week.

Connecticut Post writer Tony Spinelli wrote an article about the renovation going on at the Valley Diner. Here's a link to our article reflecting on the changes to the diner.

Garmin Communicator Update

Garmin recently released an update to their browser plug-in. For those not familiar with the software, here's a brief overview. Garmin wrote a piece of software that lets your web browser send to and receive information from your Garmin GPS unit.

You may notice at the end of our articles under "Article Tools" we include the address information for diners. The line View Map / Send to GPS is a link which takes you to Google Maps. If you have the software installed and your GPS device plugged in and powered on, one of the options on the Google Map screen will be to send the information to your GPS. With the ubiquity of GPS receivers in automobiles, having this browser plug-in allows you to quickly and easily find the diner.

Download the Garmin Communicator update version 2.6.3.0 here.

Farmington Diner

Another article was published online about the diner. Betty Jespersen's article in the Friday's edition Kennebec Journal Morning Sentinel mentions plans which sound like those of the former Big Dig Diner. Rachel Jackson-Hodsdon envisions a place to train people for the food service industry. If this is a project you'd like to be involved in, we suggest you contact Ms. Jackson-Hodsdon. See our blog entry from February 19th for further information.

Massachusetts State Quarter Poll Results

The results are in and none of the diners received enough votes. Read the press release about from the governor's office. Here's a link to our article from February 14th about the poll.

Diner News and History Website Happenings

Our work continues on creating individual diner pages. We encourage you to visit our page "Diner Listing By State." Clicking on the state will take you to another page listing some of the diners we've mentioned. Let us know what type of information you would like to see appear on the diner's individual page. If there's a missing diner or information that you would like to fill in or correct, please leave a comment on the page or email us.

Diners for sale

We continue to get a good response to our post mentioning the buyadiner.com site. If you are interested in purchasing a diner, buyadiner.com just might have one for you. We are always interested in hearing about other diners that are for sale.

Additions / Deletions

The following diners were added to our diner database.

Charley's Diner*
Philadelphia, PA
-source was an online matchbook auction.

Dalt's Court Street Diner
Athens, OH
-source

New City Diners "American Beauty"
Bardonia, NY
-found on their website

New City Diners "American Traveller"*
-According to their website, this location is still in the works for somewhere in New Jersey.

Ramoco Grill Diner
Ramsey, NJ
-source was an online postcard auction.

Our Second Poll Question

We aren't sure if our readers are aware of another feature of the Diner News and History site. Google Maps is where we are creating an online diner map. We usually add diners and other points of interest as we mention them on this site. Here is a link our Google Diner Map. If you notice a manufactured diner missing from the map, why not let us know and we'll add it. Better yet, why not join us in maintaining this map? Email us for more information.

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(*) This diner was added provisionally pending further investigation. If you have any information on them please write us.

New Diner Planned for Boston

2009-03-06T11:32:00.000-05:00

Market Diner
Photo by flickr pro Doug Letterman and
appears here under Creative Commons

In the news today is the Boston Herald article by Donna Goodison. According to her article, Continental Concepts has a 225-seat restaurant on the drawing board. It's expected to open in Boston, Massachusetts in the 2010 time frame.

While it won't be a factory manufactured diner, it will include elements reminiscent of a 1960's diner. The 1960's are included in what's referred to as the "space age" era. Optimism of the time was reflected in the design of diners. Manufacturers included very large overhanging roofs with recessed lighting and zig-zag roof lines. Pictured above and to the right is the Market Diner in New York City. It was built in 1964 by DeRaffele Manufacturing Company, Inc. in nearby New Rochelle. The diner reopened in December of 2008.

Earlier in the week we wrote about another article mentioning Richard J. S. Gutman. Continental Concepts has retained the services of Mr. Gutman in their design of the Continental Diner. This isn't the first time Mr. Gutman has been involved in restaurant design. Several years ago he consulted with Silver Diner Development, Inc., on the design of their diners. In January Bulletin Newspapers published Scott Wachtler's in depth interview with Mr. Gutman. That article includes a picture of his kitchen with a Worcester Lunch Car Company inspired counter. Mr. Wachtler's entire article may be read here.

We'll follow this story as it develops.

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Market Diner
572 11th Avenue
New York, NY
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In the News - Victory Diner

2009-03-05T20:42:00.000-05:00

It was in August of 2007 that the Victory Diner left its Richmond Road home. The diner has since been in storage at a parks department office near Father Capadanno Boulevard on Staten Island, New York. Back then it was thought the diner would reopen spring 2009.

Bree Driscoll with NY1 reported the diner will be part of a $10 million project at Midland Beach. If things go as planned, they could get started during the summer and be complete about a year later. We'll post more information as it becomes available.

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In the News - KJ's Airport Diner

2009-03-04T15:03:00.000-05:00

WFXT Fox 25 brought their "Diner Wednesday" morning segment to this Worcester Lunch Car Company built diner in Shirley, Massachusetts. A short video has been posted online.

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KJ's Airport Diner
108 Lancaster Rd.
Shirley, MA
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In the News - Diner Exhibit

2009-03-04T12:00:00.000-05:00

Johnson & Wales Culinary Archives
& Museum Diner Exhibit,
© 2005 DinerHistory.com file photo

We last visited the museum about a month ago. It was the opening of Becky Haletky's exhibit entitled, "Time to Eat." Today Gwenn Friss wrote an article about the permanent exhibit, "Diners: Still Cookin' in the 21st Century" on display at the Johnson & Wales Culinary Archives & Museum. We thought our readers would like to know more about the exhibit.

As you step through this Kullman Industries, Inc. designed and manufactured entrance, you embark upon your journey through diner history.

Richard J. S. Gutman drew upon the past forty years (and more) of researching, photographing, restoring, and authoring numerous books about diners. As you walk through the exhibit, you will see items from his extensive collection on display. It wouldn't be considered a static display, as the exhibit is refreshed throughout the year. The exhibit is "interactive" as there are photographs, video, an actual diner restoration in process, and guides available to answer your questions.

Ever Ready Diner,
© 2008 DinerHistory.com file photo

Speaking of the restoration, let's take a look at the diner on display. It was built in 1926 by the Worcester Lunch Car Company in Worcester, Massachusetts. Over the years the diner evolved and was renovated. It last operated a short distance from the museum, as the Ever Ready Diner in downtown Providence, Rhode Island. During our June 2008 visit, the museum staff graciously talked with us in detail about the restoration. Not too long before we took this picture, the stained glass was installed above the windows.

One of the first things you might notice when looking inside the diner is the hood over the cooking area. It's a stainless steel hood similar to those seen in some late 1940's/early 1950's Worcesters. On the ceiling steel strips frame the sand and red Formica sheets. That Formica pattern is similar to the style used in the Peterboro.

Perhaps what caught your eye first was the diner's floor? In some 1920's diners, we've seen a foot rail installed. With the Ever Ready, a tiled foot rest was constructed and covers the floor's mosaic tile border. If you've ever visited the Deluxe Diner in Rumford, Maine, you'll instantly recognize the same floor tile pattern. We noticed some of the missing ceramic hexagon floor tiles had been replaced. Atop the foot rest the tile is arranged in a pattern similar to that of the Fish Tale.

We encourage you to visit the museum and view the exhibits. More work remains to be done on the Ever Ready to bring the it back to the way it was. If you would like to be part of this restoration, we encourage you contact the museum.

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Diners: Still Cookin' in the 21st Century
Johnson & Wales Culinary Culinary Archives & Museum
315 Harborside Blvd.
Providence, RI
View Map / Send to GPS *
(401) 598-2805
Hours: Tuesday through Sunday 10AM-5PM

We invite you to visit our flickr diner photostream.

In the News - Valley Diner

2009-03-02T21:32:00.000-05:00

Valley Diner,
© 2007 DinerHistory.com
file photo

During the Connecticut leg of a 2007 diner road trip we stopped at many Swingle Diner Company built diners. For this comparison, we'll mention the Bridgeport Flyer in Milford, CT, Penny's III in East Norwalk, CT, and the Valley Diner in Derby, CT. All three had environmental exteriors including large stones and terracotta tile awning / roof lines. The Valley also included hints of wood and brick. Pictured at right is how the Valley looked like in November 2007.

You can see some of the work being done in two lane blacktop's flickr photo October 2008. The exterior siding above and below the windows had been removed. Notice the right side of the new and larger vestibule taking shape. The forms for the new concrete steps were in place.

In today's Connecticut Post, Tony Spinelli gives us an update on the progress of DeRaffele's renovations. According to the article, they expect things will be completed by next month. The article also includes a series of photographs. You've seen our picture and compared it to two lane blacktop's. Take a look at the fourth picture in Mr. Spinelli's article. While a dramatic change, it draws elements from its prior environmental roots. It's also a departure from the chrome, neon, and tile exteriors DeRaffele used in diners like the Athenian III in Milford, and the Blue Colony Diner Restaurant in Newtown, CT.

We'll post more information about the diner and its renovation as it becomes available.

Article Tools

Valley Diner Restaurant
636 New Haven Ave.
Derby, CT
View Map / Send to GPS *

We invite you to visit our flickr diner photostream.

Diners on TV

2009-03-01T17:35:00.000-05:00

3/4/2009
KJ's Airport Diner on "Diner Wednesday."

3/20/2009, 3/21/2009, 3/22/2009
Food Network's "Al Roker's Diner Destinations"
Check your local listings for times.

We'll post information here throughout the month.

In the News - Betty's Diner

2009-03-01T00:41:00.000-05:00

According to Montanette Murphy of the Utica Observer-Dispatch, Betty's Diner in Marcy, New York has closed. Dave and Tammy Riker, owners of the diner have decided to move on.

Betty's is a 1951 Silk City Diner which we last visited back in 2005, the year the Riker's purchased the diner.

Weekend Roundup

2009-02-28T11:29:00.000-05:00

Time period covered 2/22/2009-2/28/2009

The Weekend Roundup feature draws from some of our postings during this past week. It's purpose is a quick summary and one area of the blog where we usually don't include map links or pictures. At times we may include other items here not making the blog that may be of interest to our readers. We'd like to hear your comments or suggestions.

In this issue

Weekly Summary
Casey's Diner Mention
La Barge Moondance Diner
Larry Cultrera
Diner News and History Website Happenings
Our Second Poll Question

Weekly Summary

Last Saturday we wrote about the pending closure of the Park Classic Diner. Two days ago news reports to replace the diner with a chain drug store appeared online.

Otherwise, there were no news reports of any classic diners being demolished, constructed, installed, or moved. Please let us know if we've missed something diner related happening this past week.

Casey's Diner Mention

We thought we'd mention Nicole Simmons of the MetroWest Daily News recently crowned Casey's Diner with having the best burger. Her article may be read here.

La Barge Moondance Diner

News of the diner's opening back in January is reaching more news outlets. In the past couple weeks the diner has been written up by the Associated Press, Boston Globe, Colorado Springs Gazette, MSNBC, and others. Here's the results of Google's news search.

Larry Cultrera

Mr. Cultrera has written about diners and roadside related places for a number of years. Currently he authors a blog entitled, "Diner Hotline." In addition to his blog, many of his vintage photographs are posted to his flickr photostream.

Recently he told us of some upcoming presentations for this year. On Wednesday March 18th at 7PM, he will give a presentation called "Local Roadside Memories" at the Medford Public Library. The library is located at 111 High Street, in Medford, Massachusetts (View Map / Send to GPS *). We'll post more as information becomes available.

Diner News and History Website Happenings

Our work continues on creating individual diner pages. Let us know what type of information you would like to see appear on the page. If there's missing information that you would like to fill in or correct, please leave a comment on the page or email us.

Diners for sale

We continue to get a good response to our post mentioning the buyadiner.com site. If you are interested in purchasing a diner, buyadiner.com just might have one for you. We are always interested in hearing about other diners that are for sale.

Additions / Deletions

The following diners were added to our diner database.

American Diner
Cleveland, OH
-source Diversified Diners

Dino's Seaville Diner*
Ocean View, NJ
-source

New City View Diner
Whitehall, PA
-source the hungry pard blog. They include an exterior picture showing what looks to be a DeRaffele Manufacturing Company Inc. built diner similar to the demolished Thru-Way Diner.

Preston Diner
Essington, PA
-source online postcard auction

Shore Diner*
Egg Harbor, NJ
-source

Our Second Poll Question

We aren't sure if our readers are aware of another feature of the Diner News and History site. Google Maps is where we are creating an online diner map. We usually add diners and other points of interest as we mention them on this site. Here is a link our Google Diner Map. If you notice a manufactured diner missing from the map, why not let us know and we'll add it. Better yet, why not join us in maintaining this map? Email us for more information.

Article Tools

We invite you to visit our flickr diner photostream.

(*) This diner was added provisionally pending further investigation. If you have any information on them please write us.

Senator Theatre - Baltimore, MD

2009-02-28T08:42:00.000-05:00

The Senator Theatre
Photo by flickr pro zizzybaloobah and
appears here under Creative Commons

We remember writing about the Senator a few years ago on our previous website. At that time financial difficulties put the future of this Art Deco theatre into jeopardy. Things went down to the wire. Through a combination of donations from the community and loans the theatre avoided closure.

Maryland Daily Record writer Liz Farmer recalls past challenges the theatre faced in her recent article. She outlines what the theatre is up against this time, as financial difficulties have put it in danger of closing again.

At times classic theatres and diners both find themselves in the way of development and progress. In some opinions, these gems of the roadside have long outlasted their purpose. A single screen theatre such as the Senator is replaced by a multi or a mega screen venture. Diners on the other hand are typically replaced by a non-food service chain businesses.

We'll monitor the situation of the Senator and post here as information becomes available. Meanwhile Liz Farmer's in depth article may be read here.

Article Tools

Cinema Treasures listing for the Senator Theatre.

Senator Theatre
5904 York Rd
Baltimore, MD
(410) 435-8338
View Map / Send to GPS *

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March 2009 Diner Visits

2009-02-26T23:56:00.000-05:00

It's about that time again--to hit the road. This time we are looking for your suggestions. Do you have a favorite diner you want us to visit? Let us know. . .

Are you a diner owner and want us to visit your diner? This is a great opportunity for your diner to appear on the Diner News and History website.

In the News - Park Classic Diner

2009-02-26T10:53:00.000-05:00

As an update to our blog post on the 21st about the diner, a new article appeared online. The Tribune-Review Publishing Company staff writer, Michael Cristiano updates us on the situation facing the diner. According to his article and without a dissenting vote, the Monroeville Planning Commission has given the go ahead for plans to remove the diner and build a chain drug store in its place.

We'll follow the situation and post about it to this website as the situation develops. Mr. Cristiano's entire article may be read here.

Article Tools

Park Classic Diner
3893 William Penn Hwy.
Monroeville, PA
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A Look Back on February 25th

2009-02-25T10:00:00.000-05:00

Over the years, today was a busy day for diner news. We've posted some of the news summaries in this column. If you know of something diner related happening on this day, please contact us.

2/25/2008
Brian McCarthy wrote about the closing of a landmark--the Vale-Rio Diner.

2/25/2008
The Philadelphia Inquirer reporter Vernon Clark wrote about the impact road construction was having on local businesses. One of those Germantown Avenue businesses mentioned in the article was the Trolly Car Diner.

We invite you to visit our flickr diner photostream.

Deb's Diner - Salem, MA

2009-02-25T08:00:00.000-05:00

Fox 25's "Diner Wednesday" hosted by Doug "VB" Goudie visited Deb's this morning. They have a short video clip on their website.

Article Tools

Deb's Pilgrim Diner
4 Boston St.
Salem, MA
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Mickey's Diner - St. Paul, MN

2009-02-24T10:20:00.000-05:00

It was on this date in 1983, that Mickey's was added to the National Register of Historic Places. The diner was built by O'Mahony and arrived in 1937*. Keith Walker, owner of the Road Island Diner, sent us some information about the diner. Mickey's is fifty feet long by ten feet wide and is serial number 1067.

flickr has many images of the diner. We've selected a few to include in our post as we highlight some of Mickey's features.

Exterior

Mickey's Diner
Photo by flickr pro cliff1066 and appears
here under Creative Commons

The diner's streamline exterior features stainless steel and porcelain enamel panels. "Mickey's Diner" was lettered in an Art Deco style typeface below the windows. Monitor roofs were popular in diner architecture. That's one feature people associated with train cars and travel, so it was incorporated into diners. Notice the mechanism that opens the orange and white stained glass clerestory windows. These are almost the same style glass used in the Fegely's Reading Diner.

Interior

diner
Photo by flickr pro Klaus M and appears
here under Creative Commons

Several aspects of the diner are shown in this picture. Notice the interior walls with horizontal striping, which is reminiscent of the tiled walls and stripe used in the O'Mahony Monarch models. The mosaic ceramic tile floor, counter stool tops, pedestal and base are also visible. Notice the turquoise blue box at the end of the diner, towards the top of the ceiling. It reminds us of Seeburg speakers we've seen in other diners, like the Blue Moon Diner, a Worcester Diner, in Gardner, Massachusetts.

Mickey's Diner
Photo by flickr pro timbu and
appears here under Creative
Commons

A pre-requisite for an authentic diner experience includes some cooking being done behind the counter. In the smaller diners, this is usually an owner or family member working the grill. See the well worn counter top--it could speak volumes about the people dining there over the years. Above the cook, on the hood is a triple panel bill of fare. The opposite end of the hood has another one mounted there too.

Mickey's Diner
Photo by flickr pro timbu and
appears here under Creative
Commons

At only ten feet wide, there's not enough room for a row of tables opposite the stools. This picture highlights the mahogany trim detail around the windows. Above the windows notice the curvature of the roof and its rose clored Formica-like panels.

Being listed as a historic place is not a guarantee. Time will only tell if Mickey's is around for another seventy years.

Article Tools

Mickey's Diner
36 W. 7th Street
St. Paul MN
View Map / Send to GPS *

We invite you to visit our flickr diner photostream.

* Conflicting Internet references are found in regards to the manufacture date of Mickey's. Their website says, "St. Paul's 24 hour host since 1939." Wikipedia states the diner was built in 1937. Given that the serial number for Mickey's is #1067, and the Road Island Diner's is #1107, it's possible 40 diners were built in 1939. Even the Minnesota Historical Society lists the range of 1937 to 1939 for manufacture date. This is something we'll look into further.

Vale-Rio Diner - Phoenixville, PA

2009-02-23T12:58:00.000-05:00

Vale-rio Diner's New Home
Photo by flickr pro road_less_trvled
and appears here under Creative
Commons

Tomorrow just about marks one year since the Vale-Rio closed. As depicted to the right, the diner currently sits in storage, a short distance from it's previous location at 494 Nutt Road, in Phoenixville, Pennsylvania.

The diner itself was built by Paramount in 1948. Affixed over an entrance or exit door should be the builder tag "Paramount Dining Cars." In later years they did business as Paramount Modular Concepts. We've even found reference to P M C Diners Inc. From what we can tell, the company is still around, however we are unaware of any recently built diners.

Other diner manufacturers in the mid to late 1940's such as Kullman (K), with their Challenger model, and certain Mountain View (MV) diners used glass blocks in their corners. Two examples are the former Victory Diner (K) pictured here and the Tastee Diner (MV) pictured here.

Although, this model built by Paramount is unique. In addition to the streamline exterior, it incorporates Art Deco elements. Below the windows at regular intervals are circular discs burnished into the stainless panels. A query of our diner database returned other Paramount built diners with the same patterned exterior. We've listed them below and included a link to a flickr picture of the diner.

Similar Paramount diners:

11th St. Diner in Miami Beach, Florida picture;
West Bay diner in Grand Marias, Michigan picture; and
the closed Dishes Restaurant in Hartford, Connecticut picture.

Please let us know if there are other similar diners out there that we've missed.

Development forced the Val-Rio's removal from the site it occupied since 1948. Currently its future is uncertain. As we receive information about the Vale-Rio, we'll post it here.

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A Look Back on February 23rd

2009-02-23T10:00:00.000-05:00

Over the years, today was a busy day for diner news. We've posted some of the news summaries in this column. If you know of something diner related happening on this day, please contact us.

2/23/2006
Nadia Alvarado of the Post-Standard noted the first anniversary of Anne Marie Torpy's running the Canastota Dinerant.

Article Tools

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Weekend Roundup

2009-02-22T23:45:00.000-05:00

Time period covered 2/15/2009-2/21/2009

The Weekend Roundup feature draws from some of our postings during this past week. It's purpose is a quick summary and one area of the blog where we usually don't include map links or pictures. At times we may include other items here not making the blog that may be of interest to our readers. We'd like to hear your comments or suggestions.

In this issue

Weekly Summary
L&S Diner Mention
Diner News and History Website Happenings

Weekly Summary

This past week we wrote about an opening and a closing. The Hometown Grille opened in the former Route 72 Diner in Berlin, Connecticut. Closed is the East Windsor Restaurant, in East Windsor, Connecticut. Though long rumored, articles appeared on the internet confirming the pending closure of the Forest Diner in Ellicott City, Maryland and Park Classic Diner in Monroeville, Pennsylvania. We aren't sure when they will close, so enjoy them while you can.

L&S Diner Mention

Andrew Jenner of the Daily News-Record went to the L&S Diner in Harrisonburg, VA. Though the L&S isn't a factory manufactured diner, it was patterned after one. For an in depth on the subject of the incredible egg, we suggest you read his article. Mark Cubbage estimates he cooks 300 eggs a day there.

Diner News and History Website Happenings

Our work continues on creating individual diner pages. Let us know what type of information you would like to see appear on the page. If there's missing information that you would like to fill in or correct, please leave a comment on the page or email us.

Diners for sale

We continue to get a good response to our post mentioning the buyadiner.com site. We are always interested in hearing about other diners that are for sale.

Additions / Deletions

We added the Windsor Grille / East Windsor Restaurant to the database.

There were no news reports of any classic diners being demolished, constructed, installed, or moved. Please let us know if we've missed something diner related happening this past week.

Our Second Poll Question

We've decided to extend our poll question to the end of the month. In case you missed it, we are looking for feedback on our Google Diner Map. Your input is very important and we ask that you take a minute and vote.

Article Tools

We invite you to visit our flickr diner photostream.

(*) This diner was added provisionally pending further investigation. If you have any information on them please write us.

A Look Back on February 22nd

2009-02-22T10:00:00.000-05:00

Over the years, today was a busy day for diner news. We've posted some of the news summaries in this column. If you know of something diner related happening on this day, please contact us.

2/22/2008
Betty Jespersen reported in the Kennebec Journal & Morning Sentinel that Rachel Jackson-Hodsdon was a step closer to moving the former Farmington Diner.

2/22/2007
Laura Johnston's article in the Morris Ledger mentioned the development facing the land the one time Chatham Diner occupies.

We invite you to visit our flickr diner photostream.

In the News - Park Classic Diner

2009-02-21T19:42:00.000-05:00

New Mexico Business Weekly is reprinting an article from the Pittsburgh Business Times. The Times reports the closure of three Park Classic Diner locations. Two of these are in Pennsylvania and one is in Ohio.

According to this article, Brian Butko mentions their Monroeville, Pennsylvania location is a Kullman built diner which opened in 2001.

Article Tools

Park Classic Diner
3893 William Penn Hwy.
Monroeville, PA
View Map / Send to GPS *

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In the News - Road Island Diner

2009-02-21T16:50:00.000-05:00

Road Island Diner
Photo by Keith Walker

Keith Walker wrote letting us know about the award his restaurant just received. A little background first though. Keith completely restored a 1939 Jerry O'Mahony, Inc. designed and built diner. His restaurant competed against many others in Utah.

While we weren't there to hear it, the official announcement from Salt Lake Magazine would have sounded something like this. The 11th annual Salt Lake Magazine Dining Award for "Best Design" goes to . . . the Road Island Diner.

We congratulate Keith and his team at the diner for a job well done. The entire article listing all the recipients may be read here.

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Road Island Diner
981 Weber Canyon Road
Oakley, UT
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The Diner Waitress

2009-02-21T14:07:00.000-05:00

Waitress in diner, 1981
Photo by flickr pro Seattle Municipal
Archives and appears here under
Creative Commons

Here at Diner News and History we realize we may have neglected to mention an important aspect of diners--the diner waitress. As a seasoned professional, she knows her regulars and what you are going to order as you enter the diner. She's there for advice and at the same time, will let you know when you get out of line. In a sense, she's the unsung heroine of the diner.

Having been a waitress herself, Candacy A. Taylor began researching waitresses for her project almost eight years ago. She has put together an exhibit entitled, "Dishing It Out: Career Waitresses Across the U.S.A." It's currently on display for about the next two months at the San Francisco Public Library.

For more information visit the Candacy A. Taylor, or the library's website listed below.

Article Tools

Candacy A. Taylor M.A.

San Francisco Public Library
The Jewett Gallery
Main Library
100 Larkin
San Francisco, CA
View Map / Send to GPS *
(415) 557-4277
exhibition website

We invite you to visit our flickr diner photostream.

A Look Back on February 21st

2009-02-21T10:00:00.000-05:00

Over the years, today was a busy day for diner news. We've posted some of the news summaries in this column. If you know of something diner related happening on this day, please contact us.

2/21/2006
Mary Ann D'Urso writing for the Courier News, wanted to know what diner was your favorite.

We'd encourage you to share your favorite diner here. It doesn't have to be located in New Jersey, as the ones in Ms. D'Urso's article.

Article Tools

We invite you to visit our flickr diner photostream.

Fat Boy Burgers

2009-02-19T22:41:00.000-05:00

fat boy burgers
Photo by flickr pro gawthspork
and appears here under Creative
Commons

We realize this article isn't about a diner, though it's a business that's been around for a while--some might refer to it as an "institution." Others may consider it to be a greasy spoon. That was up till July 2007 when the previous owner, Andrew Taylor, closed the place.

Fast forward to February 16, 2008. It marked the day Matt and Jill Urbane reopened the Fat Boy. According to their blog, the response from the community has been positive.

In today's Grand Rapids Press, Chris Knape talks with Matt Urbane and got an idea of the elbow grease it took to reopen the business.

We'd be interested in hearing first hand reports from our readers in the Grand Rapids area.

Article Tools

Fat Boy Burgers
2450 Plainfield Ave. NE.
Grand Rapids, MI
View Map / Send to GPS *

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In the News - Forest Diner

2009-02-19T19:44:00.000-05:00

The Forest Diner was the subject of today's article by Jennifer Choi and Derek Simmonsen. In that Howard County Times article, they wrote about the changes facing a business that's been in Ellicott City, Maryland for over half a century.

Although the financial transaction took place back in August 2008, some of the details were made public in today's article. Owner of the Forest Diner, Will Reich sold the property to developers. Conditions in the agreement should keep the diner open for the next four and one-half years.

Article Tools

Forest Diner
10031 Baltimore National Pike
Ellicott City, MD
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In the News - Former Farmington Diner

2009-02-19T13:38:00.000-05:00

Former Farmington Diner,
© 2008 DinerHistory.com file photo

Opinion

Ann Bryant has written again about the former Farmington Diner. Her article appears in today's Sun Journal.

After having been downtown Farmington, Maine since the 1960s, development forced its removal the end of March 2008. Rachel Jackson-Hodgdon stepped forward in an effort to prevent the diner from being demolished. Just about eleven months later and now the Wilton town officials want to know what she plans to do with the diner.

We made some observations during our August of 2008 visit. The diner currently sits on Cemetery Road out of sight of Route 2. The picture above was taken while standing about 150' from the diner. The only houses we recall seeing were one to the left of the diner and one behind us. Cemetery Road appeared to be a narrow infrequently traveled country road lined with deciduous trees.

Perhaps its time for the vocal opponents to step up to the plate. Getting this diner back into service is a challenge, one which requires serious financial commitments. We've included contact information for Ms. Jackson-Hodgdon below.

As we receive information about this project, we'll post it here.

Article Tools

Rachel Jackson-Hodgdon
Socially Important Project
P.O. Box 126
East Wilton, ME 04234
thefarmingtondiner@yahoo.com

Closed
Farmington Diner
Cemetery Road
Wilton, ME
View Larger Map / Send to GPS *

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A Look Back on February 19th

2009-02-19T10:00:00.000-05:00

Over the years, today was a busy day for diner news. We've posted some of the news summaries in this column. If you know of something diner related happening on this day, please contact us.

2/19/2007
Owen Hutchinson mentions the L&S Diner in his article appearing in the Breeze.

Though the L&S isn't a factory manufactured diner, its look is patterned after one.

Article Tools

We invite you to visit our flickr diner photostream.

Diner Cruises, Meetings, or Shows

2009-02-18T13:41:00.002-05:00

Road Island Diner
Photo by Keith Walker

Does your auto club or motorcycle group meet at classic diners? We'd like to know about your club and the diners they've been to. Though it's February and the summer's still a few months away, why not consider a meet at your local diner? Let us know your group's schedule and we'll do our best to fit it into this website. Click here to email us.

Diner owners, if there is a event scheduled at your diner, or if you are willing to host one, please let us know.

Pictured is Keith Walker's Road Island Diner. It was originally built in 1939 and proudly displays a Jerry O'Mahony, Inc. diner tag. Keith completely restored the diner and opened for business in June of 2008.

Article Tools

Road Island Diner
981 Weber Canyon Road
Oakley, UT
View Map / Send to GPS *

We invite you to visit our flickr diner photostream.

Diner Cruises, Meetings, or Shows

2009-02-18T13:41:00.001-05:00

Road Island Diner
Photo by Keith Walker

Does your auto club or motorcycle group meet at classic diners? We'd like to know about your club and the diners they've been to. Though it's February and the summer's still a few months away, why not consider a meet at your local diner? Let us know your group's schedule and we'll do our best to fit it into this website. Click here to email us.

Diner owners, if there is a event scheduled at your diner, or if you are willing to host one, please let us know.

Pictured is Keith Walker's Road Island Diner. It was originally built in 1939 and proudly displays a Jerry O'Mahony, Inc. diner tag. Keith completely restored the diner and opened for business in June of 2008.

Article Tools

Road Island Diner
981 Weber Canyon Road
Oakley, UT
View Map / Send to GPS *

Cruise-in and Car Show Calendar

We invite you to visit our flickr diner photostream.

In the News - The Rosebud

2009-02-18T11:31:00.000-05:00

Rosebud Diner, Somerville MA
Photo by flickr pro JoeBehrPalmSprings
and appears here under Creative Commons

Also in consideration for being featured on the reverse of the new Massachusetts state quarter is another diner. This one arrived at its Somerville location almost sixty-eight years ago. This Worcester Lunch Car Company built diner has held its own throughout the years and change of ownership.

Cathleen Twardzik of the Somerville News recently spoke with Helen Defrancisco, its current manager about the prospects of being chosen to represent Massachusetts. Her entire article may be read here.

Article Tools

The Rosebud
381 Summer St.
Somerville, MA
View Map / Send to GPS *

We invite you to visit our flickr diner photostream.

A Look Back on February 18th

2009-02-18T10:00:00.000-05:00

Over the years, today was a busy day for diner news. We've posted some of the news summaries in this column. If you know of something diner related happening on this day, please contact us.

2/18/2005
Regine Labossiere, Hartford Courant Staff Writer noted the recent movement of the former Windham Diner.

The diner opened at the end of 2005 as Mickey's Windham Diner.

Article Tools

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In the News - Deluxe Town Diner

2009-02-17T15:19:00.000-05:00

Deluxe Town Diner
Photo by flickr pro Dale Cruse and
appears here under Creative Commons

Christine Laubenstein's article about the roof fire at the Deluxe Town Diner appeared in today's Wicked Local Watertown edition. Her article mentioned the source was a wiring issue in the vintage neon roof sign.

The on-site built diner reopened an hour or so later.

Article Tools

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In the News - Al's Diner

2009-02-16T23:06:00.000-05:00

We've already mentioned this on Saturday in our Weekend Roundup feature. Today another article has appeared online about the competition to be on the reverse of the Massachusetts state quarter.

Holly Angelo talked with Costas "Gus" Mathews about his diner, a candidate on the ballot in the Hampden County region. He's up against quite a list of viable alternatives. Two other diners also made the list; Miss Worcester Diner and the Rosebud.

The diner is quintessential Americana. It's already been featured in numerous advertisements, was on a U.S. Postal Service stamp, so why not on the back of a quarter? We encourage you to vote by clicking on this link.

Article Tools

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In the News - Jim Greberis

2009-02-16T13:03:00.000-05:00

Summit Diner
Photo by flickr pro three15bowery and
appears here under Creative Commons

The Independent Press and New Jersey On-Line posted an article about the recent grant to the American Red Cross from the Other Fellow First Foundation. Jim Greberis is a trustee for the foundation which is headquartered at the Summit Diner.

In these tough economic times, it's good to read about these acts of generosity.

The diner has been in the Greberis family since 1964 and is an example of a late 1930's O'Mahony. Many pictures of the Summit Diner were found on flickr, including some interior shots of the diner. Notice the counter's orange tile stripe which was an O'Mahony feature in the late 1930's. Several of their "Monarch" models also include this feature. According to Richard J. S. Gutman, noted diner expert and author several books on the subject, including "American Diner, Then and Now," told us this counter tile stripe feature was originated by O'Mahony and copied by the Worcester Lunch Car Company.

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Summit Diner
1 Union Pl.
Summit, NJ
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In the News - East Windsor Restaurant

2009-02-16T10:00:00.001-05:00

This morning's news of the closure was reported by Shawn R. Beals in the Hartford Courant. According to that article, it was back in 1967 that Nick Tartsinis opened what was then called the Windsor Grille in East Windsor, Connecticut. Over the years they expanded prompting the name change.

In viewing the restaurant's website, notice the pictures showing the booths. In one section there's the counter and booth seating. The other section has booth and table seating. Common to both sections is each booth have their own jukebox. However these seats have aqua colored cusions with tufted seat backs. It's an interesting look back at interior diner styles of the era.

We'll post more information here as it becomes available.

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A Look Back on February 16th

2009-02-16T10:00:00.000-05:00

Over the years, today was a busy day for diner news. We've posted some of the news summaries in this column. If you know of something diner related happening on this day, please contact us.

2/16/2006
Lebanon Daily News wrote about the former Eat Well Diner being moved.

The diner was moved to Elizaville, New York where it became the Elizaville Diner.

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In the News - Hometown Grille

2009-02-15T22:45:00.000-05:00

The former Route 72 Diner in Berlin, Connecticut has a new operator. According to the New Britain Herald, Mike Vinca has the keys to the place he's calling the Hometown Grille. The article mentions he's made a series of renovations. We last visited this diner a couple years ago, so we are due for another visit. We'll have a full report in a future post.

Although encased, Randy Garbin's "Diner Finder" identified this diner as being an O'Mahony built diner.

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In the News - Miss Syracuse Diner

2009-02-15T22:00:00.000-05:00

An article about the Miss Syracuse Diner was posted online in today's Post-Standard. Dick Case talks with Dan Galloway who recently purchased the diner. His article touches on the history of the diner, including its list of names and owners throughout the years.

The diner opened in December 2008 and Mr. Galloway operates it seven days a week.

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A Look Back on February 14th

2009-02-14T10:00:00.001-05:00

Over the years, today was a busy day for diner news. We've posted some of the news summaries in this column.

2/14/2008
One of the many articles Ann Bryant wrote about the Farmington Diner appeared in the Sun Journal. In this article she reported the diner would move to Wilton, Maine.

2/14/2002
Drew Houff of the Winchester Star wrote that the Triangle Diner was in the process of renovations.

Latest news is a summer 2009 opening as Mike's Triangle Diner.

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Weekend Roundup

2009-02-14T10:00:00.000-05:00

Time period covered 2/8/2009-2/14/2009

The Weekend Roundup feature draws from some of our postings during this past week. It's purpose is a quick summary and one area of the blog where we usually don't include map links or pictures. At times we may include other items here not making the blog that may be of interest to our readers. We'd like to hear your comments or suggestions.

In this issue

Weekly Summary
Richard Chappy's Osgood Bradley Trolley Restoration Project Update
Fifty States Quarter Program, Round Two
Diner News and History Website Happenings

Weekly Summary

It was a quiet week for diner news. We received an update about the Cheyenne Diner. George Papas, the New York City property owner of where it currently sits, has put up a fence around the diner. Mel Brandt of M&M Rigging located in Pennsylvania, is in the process of getting all the permits in place before the move to Alabama. The diner's expected to move by the end of the month.

Fox25's "Diner Wednesday" segment visited the Mill Pond Diner in Wareham, Massachusetts. Our blog post includes a link to Fox25's video.

Richard Chappy's Osgood Bradley Trolley Restoration Project Update

Providence Journal Staff Writer Peter C.T. Elsworth wrote an article about Richard Chappy's project to restore the trolley that was once part of the Veteran's Square Diner. It was around 2002, when the diner was in Warwick, Rhode Island, that a car crashed into it. Plans were to demolish the entire structure, but in August of that year Mr. Chappy purchased and moved the trolley portion to Providence, Rhode Island. During the process he's not only identified the manufacturer--Osgood Bradley, but the year it was built and the trolley's serial number. Take a look at his project page and the photographs he's taken along the way.

We should note that not too far from the building containing the trolley, sits a 1939 O'Mahony diner. This diner originally operated as the Lemoyne Diner, in Lemoyne, Pennsylvania. After seeing the pictures of the trolley, we await seeing how his restoration of the diner will turn out.

Fifty States Quarter Program, Round Two

Several Massachusetts news outlets have written about the U.S. Mint's anticipated 2010 release of new fifty states quarters. The previous release, 1999-2008 was so successful that the Mint has decided to release a new series.

The Mint has asked the governor of Massachusetts, "...to select one preferred and three alternate Massachusetts national sites to be featured on the reverse of a quarter." This link is to the page where you may vote on your favorites. Everyone here at Diner News and History encourages you to vote. The list includes these diners: Al's Diner in Chicopee, Miss Worcester Diner in Worcester, and The Rosebud in Somerville. According to their website, voting ends close of business on February 26, 2009.

Diner News and History Website Happenings

Our work continues on creating individual diner pages. Let us know what type of information you would like to see appear on the page. If there's missing information that you would like to fill in or correct, leave a comment on the page.

Diners for sale

We continue to get a good response to our post mentioning the buyadiner.com site. We are always interested in hearing about other diners that are for sale.

Additions / Deletions

One diner was added to the database.

Martin's Diner, found in dustboy4's picture on flickr.

There were no news reports of any classic diners being demolished, constructed, installed, or moved. Please let us know if we've missed something diner related happening this past week.

Our Second Poll Question

We've decided to extend our poll question to the end of the month. In case you missed it, we are looking for feedback on our Google Diner Map. Your input is very important and we ask that you take a minute and vote.

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(*) This diner was added provisionally pending further investigation. If you have any information on them please write us.

A Look Back on February 13th

2009-02-13T10:00:00.000-05:00

Over the years, today was a busy day for diner news. We've posted some of the news summaries in this column.

2/13/2008
This particular article written by Betty Jespersen for the Kennebec Journal & Morning Sentinel, was about the recent purchase the former Farmington Diner.

2/13/2007
Writing for the New York Sun Gary Shapiro talked about development plans in SoHo that don't include the Moondance Diner.

The diner left New York in August 2007 and opened in LaBarge, Wyoming about a month ago as the LaBarge Moondance Diner.

2/13/2003
Tribune-Review reporter Angel Brownawell wrote about the moving of the late 1930's O'Mahony diner that once operated as Serro's Diner.

2/13/2000
Jack Stewardson of the Standard-Times talked with Phil Paleologos about ownership of the Shawmut Diner over the years.

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A Look Back on February 12th

2009-02-12T10:00:00.000-05:00

We have nothing on file for this day in history. If you know of something diner related happening on this day, please contact us.

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A Look Back on February 11th

2009-02-11T10:00:00.000-05:00

Over the years, today was a busy day for diner news. We've posted some of the news summaries in this column. If you would like something included here, please write us.

2/11/2008
Rapid City Journal reporter Dan Daly wrote about a former Denny's that opened as Arnold's Classic Diner in Rapid City, South Dakota.

2/11/2008
Brian McCarthy wrote about the closing of the Vale Rio Diner in his Daily Local News article.

2/11/2008
Several news media outlets reported about the reopening of Middletown, Connecticut's O'Rourke's Diner. WTNH and the Hartford Courant posted articles online about this event.

2/11/2005
The Chronicle Printing Company wrote about the return of two former area diners: the Windham and South Windham diners.

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In the News - Mill Pond Diner

2009-02-11T07:51:00.000-05:00

Fox 25 Boston continues their South Coast Massachusetts diner tour. During the Wednesday morning broadcast, one of their segments is called "Diner Wednesday." This morning Doug "VB" Goudie visited the Mill Pond Diner in Wareham, Massachusetts. Take a look at their video for glimpses of this 1950's Jerry O'Mahony, Inc. built diner's interior.

While we don't have "VB"'s future schedule, or the ability to predict where he will be next, there are two other diners in the area he hasn't visited. These diners are also early 1950's O'Mahony built diners. We're talking about Angelo's Orchid Diner and the Shawmut Diner, both located in New Bedford, Massachusetts.

During the Fox 25 video current owner of the Mill Pond, William "Biff" Goyette reminisces there's been a diner there for as long as he can remember. He spoke of a small diner, with eight or twelve stools and a door that slides--possibly an O'Mahony. We don't have anything on file about this diner and would be interested in hearing more about it.

Our diner database has entries about other former Mill Pond Diners, one of them being a Worcester Lunch Car Company #816. We aren't sure when it arrived, though it returned to Worcester around 1959. Number 816 currently operates in Spencer, Massachusetts as Charlie's Diner.

A Mountain View Diners #309 built diner became the new Mill Pond, until about 1964 when it too was replaced. This time the diner moved a short distance away to nearby Mattapoisett. Since 2003 #309 has operated as the Nest Diner.

You might wonder where the current Mill Pond Diner came from. The O'Mahony diner was once located about thirty miles away in Fall River, Massachusetts where it operated as Earnshaw's Diner.

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Mill Pond Diner
2571 Cranberry Hwy.
Wareham, MA
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February Activities

2009-02-10T13:14:00.000-05:00

In going through our diner database, we've found several diners that were either sold, moved, opened, or closed during February. Keep an eye on the left side of this page, as we'll post about them during the month.

Tomorrow is the first anniversary of the reopening of O'Rourke's Diner, in Middletown, Connecticut. O'Rourke's was damaged in a fire, at the end of August in 2006. It took support in all forms from the local community, but after extensive interior renovations, this Mountain View Diners built diner reopened.

A Look Back on February 10th

2009-02-10T10:00:00.000-05:00

Over the years, today was a busy day for diner news. We've posted some of the news summaries in this column. If you would like something included here, please write us.

2/10/2005
Melissa Pasanen, for the Burlington Free Press, wrote about the change in ownership for Henry's Diner.

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A Look Back on February 9th

2009-02-09T10:00:00.000-05:00

Over the years, today was a busy day for diner news. We've posted some of the news summaries in this column. If you would like something included here, please write us.

2/9/2008
Writers for the Hartford Courant mentioned O'Rourke's Diner would reopen in two days.

2/9/2003
Eric Moskowitz of the South Coast Today noted the Nest Diner has new owners.

2/9/1997
Joanna McQuillan Weeks wrote about her visit to the in her South Coast Today article.

Today In Diner History. . .

2009-02-07T10:00:00.000-05:00

On this date in 1939, Allendale, New Jersey resident, Irving B. Cooper received patent number 2145919 entitled "Vehicle Body Construction." Though he filed on April 27, 1938 it wasn't until the following February when the patent was issued. This patent described a welded steel frame and other improvements to a diner car's structure. The entire patent and accompanying drawings may be viewed on the Google Patent website.

According to page 239 of "American Diner Then & Now" by Richard J. S. Gutman, Mr. Cooper, "...was vice president in charge of design and production for the diner division" of Paterson Vehicle Company. This is the company that built diners under the name Silk City Diner.

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A Look Back on February 6th

2009-02-06T10:00:00.000-05:00

Over the years, today was a busy day for diner news. We've posted some of the news summaries in this column.

2/6/2008
Ann Bryant wrote many articles for the Sun Journal about the Farmington Diner. Today's reports if this diner is to be spared demolition, time is of the essence.

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In the News - Jerry's Diner

2009-02-06T09:59:00.000-05:00

Kent Diner
Photo by flickr pro planetschwa
and appears here under Creative
Commons

The former Jerry's Diner, once located in Kent, Ohio was in the news again. Our blog entry from December 22, updated our readers on Mike Zenone's restoration project. At that time he had removed a portion of the structure.

What you see in the picture at left, is no longer. Ravenna Record-Courier writer Steph Krell briefly noted it was torn down yesterday.

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In the News - Emerald Diner

2009-02-05T13:25:00.000-05:00

After operating for many years in Norwich, Connecticut, it closed in the 1980's and subsequently moved to a field. Perhaps it would have remained there and decayed if not for the efforts of J.P. Marsh in the early 1990's. He brought the 1939 O'Mahony built diner to Hubbard, Ohio in 1994. In April 2005, after a series of renovations, the Emerald Diner opened.

Fast forward to the end of 2008 where we found an advertisement listing the business for sale. Based upon the description, though inquiries made to the broker weren't returned, we knew this was the Emerald. Asking price was set at $90,000.

Today's Vindy.com reporter John W. Goodwin Jr. writes the diner's been given a new lease on life. Long-time employee Erika Saadeh now holds the keys to the diner.

We do take issue with Mr. Goodwin on a few points. His article makes such statements as, a "...shiny silver, old-fashioned railroad caboose..." and a "...1930s-era railroad caboose with the 1950s theme..." when referring to the "Monarch" style O'Mahony diner. Several pictures of the diner are available on flickr here. The exterior has been renovated over the years and with it's extensive use of stainless, it resembles diners of the 1940's/1950's. A good example of the O'Mahony "Monarch" style diner is one we stopped at along our Pennsylvania diner trip last month. flickr pro Agilitynut has two pictures of the diner we visited--the former Reading Diner. We know of two other "Monarchs," though they are in storage, awaiting restoration: Serro's and Barr's.

We wish Ms. Saadeh all the best in her venture.

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Erika's Emerald Diner
825 N. Main St.
Hubbard, OH
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A Look Back on February 5th

2009-02-05T10:00:00.000-05:00

Over the years, today was a busy day for diner news. We've posted some of the news summaries in this column.

2/5/2008
WTNH.com reporter Crystal Haynes talks with Mo Ali, owner of the closed Forbes Diner.

Soon after closure the diner was moved to storage in New Haven, Connecticut.

2/5/2006
Lisa Finneran's article for the Daily Press reports the Blue Star Diner in Newport News, Virginia is undergoing renovations.

We invite you to visit our flickr diner photostream.

A Look Back on February 4th

2009-02-04T10:00:00.000-05:00

Over the years, today was a busy day for diner news. We've posted some of the news summaries in this column.

2/4/2001
Peter Mandel a Boston Globe reporter, wrote about the Modern Diner, a vintage Sterling diner in Pawtucket, Rhode Island.

2/4/2001
Peter Mandel wrote another article for the Boston Globe. His article talked about his visit to the Silver Top Diner in Providence, Rhode Island.

The diner was moved to Pawtucket, Rhode Island in 2002 and hasn't reopened.

2/4/2001
Charles Osgood, for his television program, "CBS News Sunday Morning" talks about his visit to Tommy's Deluxe Diner, in Middletown, Rhode Island.

Tommy's closed in 2006. About two years later it reopened as the Road Island Diner in Oakley, Utah.

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In the News - Star Diner

2009-02-03T16:00:00.000-05:00

After many years of anticipation, we can now report the Star Diner in Rumford, RI quietly opened yesterday. The Providence Journal has a video clip here about opening.

We last wrote about the Star Diner in our January 25, 2009 blog entry. At that time an article appeared in the Pawtucket Times mentioning the diner would open soon.

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Star Diner
140 Newport Ave.
Rumford, RI
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A Look Back on February 3rd

2009-02-03T10:00:00.000-05:00

Over the years, today was a busy day for diner news. We've posted some of the news summaries in this column.

2/3/2008
Mark Zaretsky's article in the New Haven Register reported that O'Rourke's Diner was days from reopening.

O'Rourke's closed in 2006 due to fire and reopened on February 11, 2007.

2/3/2006
The Pawtucket Times reporter, Douglas Hadden wrote an update on the Silver Top Diner.

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A Look Back on February 2nd

2009-02-02T10:00:00.001-05:00

We have nothing on file for this day in history. If you know of something diner related happening on this day, please contact us.

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Search Assistance

2009-02-02T10:00:00.000-05:00

You've entered some words into your favorite Internet search engine. Listed among the results may be some of the pages we wrote that include some of your search words. However when you click on the link it brings you to our most current front page. The results you were expecting might not be on our front page anymore. What you are looking for may even be several pages back.

Why not use the "Search" features on the left side of this page? Near the top of this page there is a blue border. At the left corner of that blue border is a search field. We suggest you enter in there what you are searching for. Or perform a tag search, also located at left.

Every so often we review the logs to see what people are searching for and the pages they were taken to. The goal of this page is to help you find pertinent information easily. As always, if you were unable to find what you were looking for, we welcome your comments.

Your Searches	Our Suggestions
tin diners for sale, classic diners for sale, STAINLESS STEEL DINER FOR SALE, subway car diners for sale, texas diners for sale, diners for sale in massachusetts	Buy A Diner.com

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DeRaffele, DeRaffele Manufacturing Company Inc, deraffele manufacturing company, New Rochelle diner	DeRaffele Manufacturing Company, Inc.

diner talk	Diner News and History

fodero dining car, fodero diner, fodero	Fodero Dining Car Company

1925 o'mahony diner for sale, Kent, Ohio, jerrys diner kent ohio	Jerry's Diner

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Mayberry, drive-in, drivein, theater, movie, Cosmo's, Chesapeake, Virginia, Moneta, mayberry diner moneta va, mayberry "drive in" and diner, mayberry diner and "drive in"	Mayberry Drive-in Theater and Diner

omahony, O'Mahoney, Mahony, Jerry O'Mahony, Inc., Jerry O'Mahony Dining Car Company	O'Mahony

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the milford mirror red arrow, red arrow milford nh	Red Arrow Diner - Milford

1948 Fodero in Washington	Richie's 305 Diner is for sale

road island diner oakley utah, Tommy's Deluxe Diner, O'Mahony, Keith Walker, Rhode Island Diner	Road Island Diner

"steve harwin" "smyrna diner"	Smyrna Diner or Steve Harwin

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thruway, thru-way, Thru-Way, Thruway, New Rochelle	Thru-Way Diner

tin man restrauant north falmouth ma address, tinman diner tuesday 2009, tinman dine, Tin Dinner N .Falmouth Ma, tin man restaurant falmouth, Tinmandiner, tinman diner, tin man, tinman, mytinmandiner, My Tinman Diner, My Tin Man Diner, Falmouth, North Falmouth, Wendell's, Wendells	Tin Man Diner

worcester	Worcester Diner or Worcester Lunch Car Company

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Bought or Sold During February

2009-02-01T10:00:00.001-05:00

2008
Rachel Jackson-Hodgdon purchases the Farmington Diner

Currently the diner sits in Wilton, Maine with an uncertain future.

Related blog entries.

We'll post more during the month.

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Diners on the Move During February

2009-02-01T10:00:00.000-05:00

2005
The Valley Diner moved from Waterbury to Willimantic, Connecticut.

This 1950's Mountain View Diners built diner later opened as Mickey's Windham Diner in December 2005.

We'll post more during the month.

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