CAHNRS > Development > ReConnect > Small Bites > Facelift for Ferdinand’s

Facelift for Ferdinand’s

On September 24 at Ferdinand’s Ice Cream Shoppe on the WSU campus, visitors were drawn into a juxtaposed environment of old and new. They came to celebrate 65 years of delicious dairy treats in an updated retail space.

The popular eatery was festively decorated for a birthday party and had vintage music playing from when its doors originally opened in 1948. Construction to enclose the former outside patio started on February 25, and the last details were completed as university classes began in August. The remodel has improved customer flow and streamlined operations.

Beginning at Troy Hall in 1948, shifting to its current location in 1992, and now with more room to better serve its fans, Ferdinand’s is still one of WSU’s most desired destinations for young and old alike.

– by Angela Lenssen

Construction worker using a jackhammer on the patio. — Construction to enlarge the retail space took only about six months. Approximately 300 square feet was gained by enclosing the outside patio, pictured here. WSU Creamery ice cream and cheese sales paid for the expansion.

Construction workers working on the framing of Ferdinand's — New floors, walls, and windows updated the shop. Shifting the layout of the ice cream and cheese cases along with the cash registers made customer service more efficient.

Ferdinand worker helping customer during construction. — Committed to serving its loyal customers, Ferdinand’s maintained regular business hours throughout the remodel process. As a result, visitors on Mom’s Weekend, pictured here, were able to buy their favorite treats amid the construction.

Ferdinand's worker ringing up customer during grand reopening. — Ferdinand’s Ice Cream Shoppe, 65th Anniversary and Grand Re-Opening. A steady crowd came to see the newly remodeled store and enjoy specials on ice cream cones and a limited release of Cracked Pepper & Chive cheese.

Customers in front of new display case during the Ferdinand's Grand Reopening. — While the changes updated the facility, the shop still looks familiar to its fans. It has kept the same great ice cream and cheese flavors, as well as the traditional décor that ties in the story of Ferdinand the Bull.

Mary Jane Kreager was one of the visitors during the celebration who told us about the days in the late 1950s when she worked at the Troy Hall Ferdinand’s location. While an employee during the store’s early years, secretarial studies major Mary Jane met her future husband, Paul Kreager, who was also a WSU student. The couple has lived in Pullman and frequented Ferdinand’s ever since.

Directions, business hours, and other details about Ferdinand’s.