Rosie’s Diner Has Officially Begun Its Move From Rockford To Alabama

Last month, we reported on activity at the iconic Rosie's Diner in Rockford. The current property caretaker, Dan Brown, has spent the last decade defending the property against vandals and trespassers. Last year, however, the diner, bar, and ice cream shop were finally purchased by a couple in Missouri who planned to restore the restaurant.

Get our free mobile app

Well, that plan has since changed. The Missouri owners decided that renovating Rosie's was a far larger undertaking than they initially thought, and a new owner has acquired Rosie's. Now we have a better understanding of the owner's plans. As it turns out, the diner's final destination is now farther south, but the original goal remains: return Rosie's to its former glory.

Moving From Rockford to Alabama

Dawn and Chuck Perry purchased Rosie's in 2023 and moved the iconic sign, which has been featured in photographs, postcards, and a Bounty commercial that gave the diner its name. Moving the rest of the diner, however, proved impossible for the couple, who have now given it to a new owner, Brian Barnett. 

Unlike the Perrys, Barnett has been quick to load up the diner and prepare it for its journey to Alabama. Five months ago, Barnett purchased the diner and the Old Bar Diner next door and will now transport the two to Hammondville, Alabama, to restore them to their former glory.

Work began last month to separate the diner and bar from each other and remove the back kitchens from half of Rosie's, making the two areas more portable. Barnett plans to "leave it as a restaurant" since everyone wants that.

READ MORE: Why Jackson Motor Speedway Was Left to Decay

There is currently no timetable for when the renovations will be complete, but Barnett has started a GoFundMe to assist with restoration costs.

The ice cream shoppe was not purchased and will remain on the property. While it's sad to see such an iconic structure leaving West Michigan, it is nice that this iconic building will get the treatment it deserves.