Through a collaboration between business, community and civic entities, Germantown’s Main Street has experienced a revival over the past three years.
The successful restoration and re-opening of two historic venues, Old Town Inn and Von Rothenburg Bier Stube, have created a growing interest in preserving and celebrating the area’s heritage.
As part of Germantown’s preservation efforts, a former Main Street area park may find new life.
Back in the late 1800s the current Old Town Inn was known as the Siegl Hotel. The hotel, along with a former neighboring park, was the site of social gatherings such as weddings, holiday celebrations and even the annual firemen’s picnic.
Unfortunately, while the hotel evolved and carried on in one form or another, the original park fell into disrepair and the historic site was parceled off. Working with those in local government and the community, Chaz Hastings, owner of Old Town Inn and Von Rothenburg Bier Stube, is hoping to bring back the park back to Germantown’s Main Street.
"The goal is to restore, revive and christen the historic setting, Siegl Park. Once again the park would become a destination for those in the community as well as visitors to Germantown," says Hastings. "All our discussions have centered on developing the park in keeping with the area’s German heritage."
Initial concepts for the park include a multi-purpose pavilion, outdoor play areas and structures, all in keeping with the area’s historic Bavarian theme. Once complete, the park could host annual events such as Maifest and Oktoberfest, along with weekly events such as farmer’s markets, live music, craft shows and more.
"We want to create a picturesque setting and facilities that not only rival, but surpass other parks here in Wisconsin," says Hastings. "Among other things, I would like to see us hosting a weekly live music series like downtown Milwaukee’s ‘Jazz In The Park’ or maybe a series of outdoor family films like they do in parks in Chicago. I’m very excited by the opportunities and the chance to help bring back a piece of the area’s history."
The next steps in the development process involve a number of meetings with community members, state and local government officials. Ideally, with approvals in place, the park’s ground breaking would take place within the next six months.
