HISTORY

“In Lawton it's Wayne's Drive Inn”, has been a truism for three generations who have and still do meet and eat there.  Wayne's Drive Inn has served Lawtonian's since 1950 and is still going strong.

Wayne Abshere who started the business was raised in Anadarko.  He began in the restaurant business in Arvin, California, where in 1947 after serving in World War II, he turned a 7-foot by 14-foot trailer into a hamburger stand.  In 1950 Wayne moved back to Lawton and opened Wayne's Burger Bar at 201 ½ B in April.  The burger bar was located behind Harry Poston's Service station on the alley at 2nd and B Ave and had a staff of two.  Abshere's wife, Mary helped him get the business going.

Abshere expanded with a location at 1011 Lee Blvd and then at No 7 South Sheridan Road.  At one time Abshere had 3 locations.  He sold the one on B, and then also sold the one on Lee to Charley Barrett, Abshere's longtime best friend.  Abshere then concentrated on the South Sheridan location, which is the current location.

Alterations to the Sheridan location included a new building being built in the early 60's with and extended parking lot.  The new building was built directly behind the old one.  The old building was shut down one night and the new one opened the next day.  The original building featured inside counter seating.  The new building was curb service by carhops only.  There were no computers in those days and all tickets were added in your head or by hand.  The major advance to the business was the electronic ordering system that was added in 1974.  It has been updated several times to increase the quality of service to the customer.

Wayne always attributed his success to serving good food and drinks at reasonable prices and having loyal employees to serve the customer.  Some of the restaurant's favorites include home made steak fingers, foot long hot dogs, onion rings and sissy burgers (burger with mayo, lettuce and tomato).  Favorite drinks include Cherry or Vanilla Coke, Cherry Dr Pepper, and Cherry Limeade.

Abshere's three children, Bob, Tarri, and Chuck all worked at the restaurant while earning degrees from Cameron University.  Abshere eventually sold the business to his sons, Bob and Chuck.

Wayne's notoriety is world wide with the effects of Fort Sill personnel.  Wayne's also sells logo T-shirts, caps and sweatshirts that have been sent worldwide.