The Story
Ed Waldmire had eaten a corn-baked hot dog in Oklahoma but thought it took too long to prepare. He asked a baker's son at Knox College to develop a faster batter. Years later, stationed in Amarillo, Texas, Ed perfected the stick technique in a USO kitchen - originally calling them 'Crusty Curs.'
His wife Virginia suggested better names: Snuggle Puppies, Long Johns, and finally Cozy Dog. She drew the famous logo of two hot dogs embracing. Ed opened his first stand on June 16, 1946, and the drive-in was born on Route 66 in 1949. His son Buz ran it for decades, and the third generation operates it today.
Surprise Facts
→ The name 'Crusty Cur' was rejected by Ed's wife Virginia
→ She drew the logo of two embracing hot dogs
→ Ed's son Bob Waldmire created the Route 66 museum in Pontiac and inspired Pixar's Fillmore
→ The original Cozy Dog sold for 15 cents
Notable People
🐇 Rabbit Hole Connection
Route 66 Hall of Fame & Museum →
Bob Waldmire, Ed's son, founded the Route 66 Hall of Fame in Pontiac. His VW bus inspired the character Fillmore in Pixar's "Cars."
Explore the connection →Visit Information
✓ Open to Visit
Address: 2935 S 6th St, Springfield, IL 62703
Hours: Daily
Tip: The recipe hasn't changed since 1946