A Little Franks Diner History

In 1926, there was some real excitement in downtown Kenosha when six horses pulled Franks Diner to the spot where it stands today. The structure was built by the Jerry O'Mahoney company in New Jersey and shipped to Kenosha on a railroad flat car.

Anthony Franks, who first learned of the unique restaurant opportunity through a magazine article, paid $7,500 plus $325 in shipping charges to launch his business. He added a dining room in 1935 and a larger kitchen in the mid 1940s.

The Franks family operated Franks Diner until 2001 when it was purchased by Kris Derwae, Lynn Groleau and Chris Schwartz. Kris Derwae started a marketing business in 2006 while Lynn and Chris kept on cookin'! The original atmosphere and delicious food continue on. Franks Diner is now owned and operated by Julie Rittmiller and Kevin Ervin.