Our History
Over a Century of Serving Springfield
From dairy farm to beloved restaurant - 1917 to present
The Beginning
The property was established as a dairy farm by the Duncan Family in the Duffee's Dairies area. The farm supplied Springfield and surrounding areas with fresh dairy products.
Retail Operations Begin
Duncan's Dairy opened a store on the property where milk products were sold directly to customers. All milk products were delivered fresh from the dairy farm.
Business Expansion
Duncan's Dairies merged with Miller-Flounder Dairy of Chester, and the site was reopened as part of Ice Cream & Dairy Cottage.
Ownership Change
Abbotts' Dairy Company purchased the property and continued dairy operations, maintaining the tradition of quality dairy products.
Menu Diversification
The Dairy Cottage expanded its original menu to include pizza, sandwiches, soups, and other items, transforming from a simple ice cream parlor into a full-service restaurant.
The Modern Era Begins
The restaurant officially became known as Dairy Cottage and began operating under the Higgins family. The establishment became a local institution, particularly popular for sticky buns and ice cream.
Facility Expansion
Dairy Cottage expanded its facilities to better serve the faithful customers of Springfield and surrounding communities.
Milestone Anniversary
The restaurant celebrated 30 years of serving Springfield under the Higgins family ownership, cementing its place as a beloved community institution.
A Springfield Institution
Over a century later, the building remains quaint and historic, reminiscent of its time as a dairy farm. With a casual and friendly interior, Dairy Cottage continues to be an excellent spot for relaxed family meals and a gathering place for the Springfield community.
Our Legacy Continues
From its establishment in the early 1900s, this site has played an important role in the development and everyday lives of the people of Delaware County. Beginning as a dairy farm, then evolving into an ice cream parlor, Dairy Cottage has grown to become a popular full-service neighborhood restaurant that represents over a century of community history.
The restaurant remains a beloved local institution where multiple generations of families have created memories, making it an integral part of Springfield's cultural and culinary landscape.