One of Huron’s favorite ice cream and frozen yogurt shops is turning 70 years old this summer.
Located at 502 Huron St., the Pied Piper Drive In has seen its fair share of business and fun, making it through three loving owners since its opening in 1952.
Earning its now-famous name from Helen and Ellsworth Piper in the summer of 1952, the joint saw new owners 10 years later when the Wechter family took the helm.
The Wechters soon settled in in the building, bringing with them more than just your typical Toft’s soft serve.
Within the next 59 years, Pied Piper saw longer hours along with the ever-growing list of mouthwatering homemade treats straight out of Grandma Wechter’s secret recipe book.
In March 2021, the Wechters decided it was time to relax, and longtime employees Pam and Anthony Frank purchased the establishment.
The Franks, having each worked for the company for over 10 years, didn’t want it to lose its Wechter charm, so they continued to run the famous treats including, the Wechter Nut Dip cone, a family twist on the original nut dip.
“I’ll let you know a little secret,” says Pam Frank. “The Wechter Nut Dip is very similar to the original one, but instead of regular nuts it’s crushed pecans, and instead of chocolate it’s hot fudge in the center.
“It gives it a special kick.”
But it’s not just ice cream that the Pied Piper has to offer.
Expanding its hours from the beginning of March to late November, gives the ice cream drive-in a chance to cater to the football crowds with everything from nachos to hoagies.
“We like to supply what we can when we can,” Pam Frank says, adding that the shop will open on select days in December and January as long as the weather permits it.
Although the Franks have yet to have their own officially named product, Anthony Frank said he is making headway.
“Right now, we use our family’s homemade marinara sauce for the meatball subs,” he said. “No name for it, yet.
“But that’s planned to come.”
Guests to nearby Nickel Plate beach also can get a special discount when visiting.
“We have partnered with the local beach in the summer,” Pam Frank said. “So, when you pay for parking access for the beach, you will get a little coupon for one free small ice cream cone upon any other purchase.
“I know a lot of beachgoers often like to end their days with some ice cream, so we wanted to be able to give them that opportunity to do so for less.”
But it’s not just people who can enjoy the treats.
Pam and Anthony Frank say they often get guests of the furrier variety.
“People always come for pup cups for their pals,” Pam Frank said. “They just go crazy.
“I’ll have customers tell me that their dogs even know what’s coming just when the name of our shop is mentioned, I love it.”
With all the love from both people and their pets, the Franks say they are pleased to state they aren’t planning on going anywhere anytime soon.
“We are so lucky to be a part of the Pied Piper’s 70-year history,” Pam Frank said. “We just hope that we can see it reach 100 years whether that be with us, our grandkids, or someone else.”
Pied Piper Drive In
502 Huron St., Huron
419-433-2601
Facebook.com/pied-piper-drive-in
