Local family plans to revive Morton ice cream shop with new branding
In mid-September, Morton hosted its 57th annual Pumpkin Festival. Eventgoers could visit the art and craft market, participate in a pie eating contest, enjoy a variety of pumpkin-themed treats and more.
Attendees of the festival may have also noticed a sign on Main Street hinting at things to come. Carius Creamery expects to open its doors in spring of 2024. The ice cream shop, situated at 214 S. Main St., most recently operated as the Carius family Dairy Queen.
“(We’re) excited about doing ice cream again,” Dawn Carius said. “I mean, that's kind of what we know.”
In fact, it’s a business the Carius family has known for over 70 years – over a decade longer than the Morton Pumpkin Festival has existed. Al and Salome Carius began business in 1951, and as time went on, Dawn said her husband and his father got involved.
A look back: Summer hot spot changes name to Carius Root Beer Stand
Carius said, “we really enjoyed our time with Dairy Queen.”
In February, though, the family announced they were parting ways with the brand. With changes and new protocols, she said, “It was just a good time to step away from them. I think we're kind of headed different directions.”
While Carius said it was difficult to say goodbye to the longtime brand, she added there is also excitement for the future.
The Morton Chamber of Commerce post announcing the new business garnered hundreds of comments. The post also received over 80 comments, including from local businesses like Tipsy’s and The Confectionery Inc.
Tipsy’s comment read in part: “Welcome back Carius family!! The summer just didn't feel right without you!! Thank you for being such a blessing to our community. We hope you stick around for generations to come.”
More: Cofounder of popular downtown Peoria coffee shop to revive space with new business
Overall, Carius said the community has been extremely supportive of the family’s next steps forward.
“We've always just felt very cared for and loved in the community, and (it’s) just been a very positive response,” Carius said. “And we're so thankful and humbled by that, as well.”
This article originally appeared on Journal Star: Longtime Morton ice cream shop to be revived