POLAND, Wis. (NBC 26) — In unincorporated Poland, the family-owned Eddie Whipp's Dining Hall is celebrating 100 years in business this June. It was first established in 1922.
"A lot of laughter, a lot of the sound of ice shaking in a glass," Manager Beckie Whipp said.
Beckie grew up inside the restaurant. Her parents are the owners and her great grandfather founded the business.
"I never realized that it was strange that we lived… literally connected to a bar and a restaurant," Beckie said.
A century ago, Beckie says Whipp's served as a bar for local farmers open seven days a week. Over the years, it's expanded with a 300-person dining hall and a ballroom.
"We would roller skate in the dance hall or come out here and ride on the wax buffer machine," Beckie said.
Now known for its cheese curds, cream puffs and fish, Whipp's is only open three days a week. But some visitors stop in every time it's open.
"Our customers… a lot of them are like family," Beckie said.
Ann and Ralph Abts have been coming for at least 30 years. It's their favorite restaurant.
The Pine Grove couple first tried Whipp's when food was still served upstairs.
"Our kids all say 'well, we always know where to find you on Friday night,'" Ann said.
As they prepare to celebrate 100 years on June 1, Beckie is thankful.
"I don't think Joe, my great grandpa, would ever have envisioned it to be what it is today or to think he was starting a business that would be around for 100 years," Beckie said.
"Come on down and join us," Ann said.
Whipp's is celebrating June 1, 3 and 5with deals on chicken and live music.
