The restoration and reestablishment of Waldmann Brewery & Wurstery is a story of determination, attention to detail, and community engagement. After years of research, planning, and dreaming, owner/proprietor Tom Schroeder and his team of volunteer and professional historians, archaeologists, architects, carpenters, and contractors began restoring the pre-Civil War limestone building in 2012. Tom’s historical research led to the property being designated as a Heritage Preservation Site by the City of St. Paul in 2015.
The restoration and reestablishment of Waldmann Brewery & Wurstery is a story of determination, attention to detail, and community engagement. After years of research, planning, and dreaming, owner/proprietor Tom Schroeder and his team of volunteer and professional historians, archaeologists, architects, carpenters, and contractors began restoring the pre-Civil War limestone building in 2012. Tom’s historical research led to the property being designated as a Heritage Preservation Site by the City of St. Paul in 2015.
For Tom to reimagine the building as a German lager beer saloon, the City Council had to adapt a Historic Use Variance (HUV), a process that Tom guided and that allows buildings to be rezoned and reused for their original purpose. Between the historic designation and HUV process, there were 11 hearings held in front of the Zoning, Planning, and Heritage Preservation Commissions. Additionally, two public hearings before the City Council were held, resulting in final approval in March 2016. At each hearing and at every turn along the way, neighbors, fellow business owners, and friends were present to demonstrate their support, highlighting the community-focused nature of the project.
“Re-opened” in fall 2017, Waldmann adds to the growing attraction of St. Paul’s West End. Waldmann hosts tours, lectures, musical acts, and private events, and their locally sourced food menu is generating buzz throughout the Twin Cities. Waldmann invites both neighbors and newcomers to get a taste of the city’s German immigrant roots, learn about the area’s commercial and cultural history, and see how one person’s passion project became a neighborhood hub.
Check out Waldmann Brewery's website (don't forget to drool over their beer and food menu while you're there)
Comments