On the Road

"D's" Diner
by Ed Crabtree

A stones' throw from the route of the old Wilderness Road, near the site of the historic Linchpin tavern and campground; there is a wonderful little diner. Not only does this fine establishment serve up an outstanding breakfast and lunch menu, but it also has quite an interesting collection of art and newspaper clippings on its walls depicting local sites and scenes from Ozarks history. D's Diner, located in the Claybough Plaza Mall in Branson West, is but one of the many locally owned establishments throughout the Ozarks where you can sample local culinary flavor and enjoy local historical flavor as well.

One of the more interesting exhibits at D's includes both old photographs and paintings of the building of the current highway 13 bridge over Table Rock Lake. Many times over the years, the raging waters of the White River destroyed ferries and previous bridges that spanned it's banks. In the Nineteen Fifties, the immediate predecessor to the current bridge yielded to the power of the White when the waters behind the new Dam flooded the valley of the raging river.

It is interesting to note that the last bridge over the White River was never dismantled and still stands deep beneath the waters of the lake, a silent tribute to the ravages of the once mighty White River.

The most prominent painting in the exhibit captures the old bridge and the existing bridge under construction. This work was by "Pop" Sherer, Great Grandfather of "D's" owner, Randy Thamm. This wonderful painting in the rustic style of Grandma Moses, is but one of the many examples of local art on display at "D's".

Other reproductions of paintings, by the gifted artist, John Arnold, depict life and trade along the White and James rivers and other historical scenes of early life in the Ozarks. These were used as illustrations for the historic Ozarks books by the renowned author Elmo Ingenthron and for one co-authored by Mary Harman. There are also several exhibits that feature collections of newspaper articles of special interest telling of past historical events in the region.

Randy and Denise Thamm, have deep roots in the area, dating back nearly a hundred years, so to them the preservation of local history is as important as preparing fresh meals, made to order, and not a warmed up "burger in a box." So why not visit D's, when you are in Branson West, have a good meal at great prices, and enjoy the exhibits. Oh, and while you are there, be sure to tell Randy and his staff that Jim, Ed and the folks at the Message Tree said to say "Howdy!"