Have you ever wondered if Governor Stumpy is a real person?

Well, he is. And his spirit is alive and well every day in his grandson’s restaurant.

Governor Stumpy’s name comes from Edward A. Stine, a native Kansas Citian, distinguished business man, lawyer and local folk hero. Stine came by his nickname “Governor Stumpy” after requesting that the band of a jam-packed local restaurant play the Tennessee Waltz for the fifth time. The frustrated band leader questioned his adamant request for the song, and Stine’s wife, Virginia “Ginno,” shouted up to the stage that he was the ex-governor of Tennessee.  The band leader, now a bit excited to have a dignitary in the crowd, asked him for his name. Stine – taken off guard and put on the spot – quickly replied, “Governor Stumpy.”

Somehow the name stuck with him, and many of the patrons in the restaurant, intrigued by his presence, introduced themselves to Stine. From that day forward, as he frequented the local restaurants and businesses, he was known as “Governor Stumpy,” the ex-governor of Tennessee. Through the years the governor’s hospitable nature and fun-loving character made him into somewhat of a local dignitary. The grandchildren of Edward Stine proudly name this restaurant “Governor Stumpy’s” in memory of their beloved grandfather and in the tradition of hospitality and light-hearted fun that he evoked in so many people.

In 1997 Kevin Ryan and his family had a vision to create something of their own. So he leased the space at 321 E. Gregory and began tearing down walls. With lots of help from family and friends, the building began to take shape. The Ryan family was so immersed in this project that it is even the space where Kevin proposed to his now wife, Tanya. Fast forward 12 years and add in a few renovations, many children to the Ryan family and a great covered deck, and you have the best neighborhood bar and grill around. Come see for yourself.