O'Mahony Diner Restoration News

Courtesy of The American Diner Museum-Providence, RI

A 1938 Diner that had its origin on the historic Lincoln Highway in Westmoreland County, PA (Irwin) will be returning to the Highway once again. But, this time the former Serro's Diner will be resting in Ligonier. In early 2003 the Senator John Heinz History Center determined they could not use the 1938 Jerry O'Mahony diner in their exhibit space. The LHHC was thrilled to acquire the diner, but just a little apprehensive in moving it and restoring it. Brian Butko of the History Center (and co-author with Kevin Patrick of the book Diners of Pennsylvania) was "happy the Lincoln Highway Heritage Corridor got it and is taking it back out there where it will be used."

Background Information on the Diner
Fabricated in New Jersey, the Jerry O'Mahony diner was considered the "Cadillac" of diners because of its all steel frame construction, quality materials and craftsmanship. The company produced 2,000 diners from 1917 until 1941 when production was suspended during WorldWar II. A few hundred units were built following the war until operations ended with bankruptcy in the mid 1950s. It is estimated that less than six diners of this model are functioning today.

The Move
Mel Brandt of Lancaster, PA (see photo; Mel is on far right) and his moving crew were recommended as the best diner movers around. The LHHC secured their services to move the diner (very carefully) from downtown Pittsburgh to eastern Westmoreland County.

The Restoration
Since it is the intention of the LHHC to fully restore the diner, professional diner experts needed to be brought in. Who better than Daniel Zilka, Executive Director of the American Diner Museum in Providence, RI and Richard Gutman, author of American Diners, Then and Now from Boston, MA.

Both consultants have extensive experience with diners; both were asked to assess the diner's condition and to make recommendations, including a prioritization of tasks with estimated costs for each task.

Neither Zilka nor Gutman will be doing the hands-on restoration. That job will fall on the LHHC, and be part of the overall Experience Center site restoration.

What's Next?
First up on the "To do" list was the completion of a Hazardous Materials Investigation report. It should be no surprise that a 1938 diner would have asbestos and lead paint, but those need to be properly removed and disposed of. That done, a new roof is the next order of business.

Stay Tuned for Future Progress Reports.