IT ALL STARTED WITH A ROOT BEER STAND
Our History
Dorothy and Franklin Welch embarked on an exciting journey by purchasing an A&W Franchise. Franklin had fallen in love with the A&W root beer after sampling it across Wisconsin, inspiring him and Dorothy to open their first store, built by Dorothy’s brother, at the original location on old Highway 41 near Highway K. However, the advent of the Interstate Highway System forced the restaurant to move about a mile west to Highway K and 43rd Street.
1953
FROM ROOT BEER STAND TO FAMILY RESTAURANT
1974
The Welches build a new location on Highway K and I-94, featuring a drive-in and an indoor dining area, marking a significant evolution from a Root Beer Stand to an A&W Family Restaurant. This site also became the first A&W franchise on I-94 in the Milwaukee, Racine, and Kenosha Counties. Here, Frank and Sharon Welch became the second-generation partners in the family business.
Frank grew up in the family business, starting by washing mugs as a youngster and eventually working in every position, including as a cook during his teen years.
After serving in the United States Army, Frank expressed his desire to become a partner with his parents, focusing on relocating and rebuilding the store to continue serving the community. In 1986, Frank and Sharon officially purchased the business from Franklin and Dorothy.
CONTINUING THE FAMILY LEGACY
Frank and Sharon navigate another eminent domain process due to interstate expansion, ensuring the continuation of their beloved family tradition on the east side of I-94 & Highway K.
Now in the third generation, Philip (Frank and Sharon's son) and his wife Brittany, are proudly leading A&W Franksville into the future.
Philip began his journey in the family business back in 1988, starting as a dishwasher and progressing to shift manager by 1994. Returning to the business as a development manager in 2008, Philip and his wife Brittany, were instrumental in securing and growing the new location on the east side of I-94, ensuring the Welch family legacy continues for years to come.
For nearly 60 years, this family business has delighted Racine County with its famous homemade Root Beer, which continues to be cherished by generation after generation.
2014
