Last updated: June 29, 2023
Place
Walter's Hot Dog Stand
Photography by Peter Shaver, courtesy of the New York State Historic Preservation Office
Quick Facts
Location:
937 Palmer Ave, Mamaroneck, New York
Significance:
Architecture, Commerce
Designation:
Listed in the National Register - 10000338
MANAGED BY:
Walter's Hot Dog Stand, in Mamaroneck, New York, was listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 2010. The stand is significant as an example of roadside architecture in New York State and as a landmark culinary and cultural institution in the village and town of Mamaroneck.
Walter's Hot Dog Stand was founded by Walter Harrington and his wife, Rose, in 1919. While the couple originally rented the stand to sell apples and apple cider from the orchard they owned, Harrington worked with a local meat maker to create a unique recipe for frankfurters, which were split and grilled at the stand. Roadside food stands, like Walter's, emerged in the early 20th century as automobiles became more common. Rather than being limited to downtown areas, businesses began to open along highways in hopes of attracting motorists.
In order to attract customers, roadside businesses like Walter's often had eye-catching architecture. This building features a unique pagoda-style roof with ornamental dragons and lanterns, covered in copper tiles.
The stand continues to be owned by the Harrington family, and serves the same split, grilled hot dogs today.
Walter's Hot Dog Stand was founded by Walter Harrington and his wife, Rose, in 1919. While the couple originally rented the stand to sell apples and apple cider from the orchard they owned, Harrington worked with a local meat maker to create a unique recipe for frankfurters, which were split and grilled at the stand. Roadside food stands, like Walter's, emerged in the early 20th century as automobiles became more common. Rather than being limited to downtown areas, businesses began to open along highways in hopes of attracting motorists.
In order to attract customers, roadside businesses like Walter's often had eye-catching architecture. This building features a unique pagoda-style roof with ornamental dragons and lanterns, covered in copper tiles.
The stand continues to be owned by the Harrington family, and serves the same split, grilled hot dogs today.