Driving into a Stratford institution

Many people may not think of a drive-in restaurant as a romantic spot, but a local couple has been bucking that trend for nearly a half century. 

Dar and Ed Illman had their first meal as a married couple at the Erie Drive In, and according to their daughter it's a tradition that has continued.

“Every May 15 on their anniversary, they go to the Erie Drive In for supper, a tradition that started after they got married,” said Carrie Wilson. “Usually myself, or my brother, our kids join them.”

With the drive in opening for the season last week, it helps take people back to a time when things were simpler and lets them enjoy the simple pleasures of going out to eat good food in a fun place to spend some time.

“Not much has changed over the years,” said Owner/Team Leader Cathy Bayer. “We put coolers in because it used to be just be ice buckets, but orders are still handwritten, it's still face-to-face, it's a pleasure, and it's been fun.” 

When you think uniquely Stratford, you have to mention the Erie Drive In, that's been in business in the same spot, with the same building and the same sign for over 60 years. Bayer is the fourth owner of the Erie Drive In, but she says the local business has always been a part of her life.

“I grew up in Stratford, and I came here with my parents, and my grandparents, and then I brought my kids here,” Bayer said. “Seeing staff come here with their grandchildren and tell us that they use work here, or that they came here as a teenager, it's just awesome.”  

The uniqueness of the Erie Drive In can be seen all over the community as well.

“To me, it signifies spring on its way, and because it opens around my birthday, it's the beginning of a new year for me,” said longtime customer Sandy Schwartzentruber. “It's great food that has been around for years. It hasn't changed even with new owners. So in a world where everything changes constantly, it's nice to have something stay the same.” 

For Katie Hoodless-Johnson, trying to describe the importance of the Erie Drive In filled her with many memories. 

“With the world changing so quickly, it’s just nice to have a place that brings back memories and has stood the test of time,” Hoodless-Johnson said.  “My daughter, who is soon 45, used to love to go for ice cream after a walk, and my dad, who has been gone 16 years, was always up for the battered mushrooms.” 

Locals and visitors alike remind Bayer and her staff — mostly young employees, many of whom are working their first jobs – about their experiences visiting the Erie Drive In. She added that staff and customers become like family – with Bayer invited to weddings, baby showers, and even over for afternoon tea with a customer.

“I've always been honored and proud to own Erie Drive In because it is a part of Stratford’s history,” Bayer said. “We see a visit as an experience. There is music playing outside, there are numbers given out and called over the loudspeaker. The staff is laughing and joking among each other, while also having fun with customers.”