Monday, February 14, 2011

Going With The Obvious ... Happy Valentine's Day

The Kansas Historical Society has a great section dedicated to the state's only diner manufacturer ... Valentine Manufacturing Inc.

Arthur Valentine and his wife started a restaurant in the 1920s, expanded to other locations in the 30s, which turned into a chain of diners.

Valentine Diners were manufactured in Wichita between the late 30s and mid 70s, and they produced many styles over the years and 'brand' names include Little Chef, Double Deluxe and Big Chef.

Characterized by their small, boxy buildings, a Valentine's counter sits 8-12 people.


Old advertising programs claim the diners were shipped to 38 states, although evidently not so much in New England. I'd never seen one until we passed through Virginia on the way to North Carolina. 

Stones Downtown Diner, Hopewell, VA
Little Chef model Valentine Diner
Click here to find a Valentine in your area.  Visit the KHS website here

Me and my Valentine
December 2008


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