Welcome to a piece of heartwarming local history that’s as savory as the barbecue sauce used in Wib’s original sandwiches – the story of Wib’s Drive In. This local landmark isn’t just a place to grab a bite; it’s a journey through time, starting from its inception in 1947 by Wib Lohman. A simple idea to feed hungry truck drivers transformed into a beloved neighborhood staple, symbolizing the evolution of community and the endurance of family values in business. The transitions in ownership, from Lohman to the Hoffmeister family, and eventually to the Hoffman family in 1972, have been marked not just by changes in operation but a steadfast commitment to quality, service, and the tradition of coming together over good food.
The initial offerings were humble – barbecue sandwiches that sold out on the first day of business, a promise of the establishment’s future success. Through the years, Wib’s witnessed transitions not only in its menu, as it adapted away from home-baked desserts to other sweet offerings, but in its operational practices too; from being open 7 days a week to adjusting hours to balance work and family life. Each owner brought their essence to Wib’s Drive In, from Sweetie’s home-baked pies under the Hoffmeisters to the elimination of curb hops and an emphasis on a family-oriented atmosphere under the Hoffmans. Through it all, the core of Wib’s – quality food and a welcoming ambiance – remained inviolate, making it an indispensable part of the local community’s fabric.
The legacy of Wib’s Drive In extends far beyond its menu or business model; it is deeply entwined with the fabric of family and community. The Hoffmans, who took over in 1972 and later passed on the torch to the next generation in 1986, have nurtured a workplace that mirrors a family gathering – inclusive, warm, and full of stories. The drive-in has seen employees become lifelong friends, witnessed love stories unfold in its parking lots, and embraced generations of families who’ve made dining at Wib’s a cherished tradition. This isn’t merely a testament to the business’s longevity but a tribute to its role in knitting the community closer, keeping alive the feeling of shared joys and collective memories.
There’s more to Wib’s Drive In than the unchanged tang of its barbecue sauce. It’s about the people – the families, friends, employees, and customers, who’ve passed through its service windows over the decades. From workers who started as high schoolers to couples who met on its grounds, Wib’s has been a backdrop to numerous life stories, accentuating the sweet with its cinnamon rolls and soothing disappointments with the promise of a new favorite find on the next visit. This essence of family and community connection, fostered over years, ensures every visitor is not just a customer but a cherished guest, welcomed into the fold with open arms and a plate full of tradition. Wib’s Drive In remains a beacon of continuity in a fast-changing world, a reminder of the simple, enduring pleasure found in good food shared with good company.
