Min Kanavas was known to many in the Brookfield and Elm Grove areas.  Min and her husband made Brookfield their home in the 1950s – about the time it became a city.  Her four boys grew up there.  One became (and is) a state Senator.

 

Min was devoted to her family and the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church.  She tremendously enjoyed contributing her time and skills to many activities.  She had boundless energy and was an enthusiastic volunteer for the Elmbrook Historical Society.  If you don’t remember Min for her community activities, you may have known her as the floral designer at Reinder’s (Elm Grove).

 

On Friday. June 13, a crabapple tree is being dedicated to Min’s memory at the Dousman Stagecoach Inn, 1075 Pilgrim Parkway in Brookfield.  Min’s family and friends will be present at this event.  Phone 262 782 4057 for more information.

The Dousman Stagecoach Inn and the Elmbrook Historical Society will host the unveiling of a painting by area artist Scott Hefti, who works with Brookfield-based North Shore Bank to create one-of-a-kind watercolors depicting the communities in which it operates.

Hefti's colorful Brookfield painting features the historic inn along with its neighbor, North Shore Bank's corporate headquarters. The bank is donating the artwork to the Historical Society to celebrate the bank's 85th birthday and a unique bit of shared history.  For 138 years, the inn stood at what is now the intersection of Bluemound and Moorland roads.

When North Shore Bank's new headquarters was built on that site in 1981, the Elmbrook Historical Society moved the inn a little way up the road.  Hefti's painting, with the historic and modern buildings and the preserved green space that lies between them, celebrates the past and present of the Brookfield community.

Hefti, along with representatives of the bank and the Historical Society, will unveil the donated painting during a special reception from 5:30 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, June 11, at the inn, 1075 N. Pilgrim Parkway.  Guided tours are offered at 5:45 and 6:15 pm.

The public is welcome to attend and talk with the artist and Historical Society representatives about this new piece of art celebrating two Brookfield institutions.  Reserve your spot now - just contact Brenna Kriviskey Sadler at (414) 276-6237.

The Elmbrook Historical Society also hosts public guided tours at the Stagecoach Inn on the first and third Sundays from 1 to 4 pm. from May through October.  In celebration of Father's Day, June 15, admission is free for all fathers.

The story of “Ten Chimneys & The Lunts” will be told by Mike Drew, award winning writer and former media columnist, on Monday, May 19, 2008.

The talk about this fascinating Genesee Deport estate and the famed actors who lived there is hosted by the Elmbrook Historical Society.  It will be held at Brookfield Park & Recreation Center’s senior hall at 2000 N. Calhoun Road in Brookfield.  The talk is free and open to the public.Ten Chimneys is on the National Registry of Historic Places.  In 1996, the estate was threatened by commercial development.  It was purchased by theatre historian and arts advocate Joseph Garton (Madison) who led public opposition to its destruction.  Twenty-four civic leaders formed the board of trustees of the Ten Chimneys Foundation in 1997 and bought the estate from Garton in 1998.

Wonderful tours of the beautiful estate are given at Ten Chimneys from May through November. 

...Is the theme of the month-long celebration sponsored by the National Trust for Historic Preservation.  "This Place Matters" provides an opportunity to celebrate the diverse and unique heritage of our country's cities and states and enable more American's to become involved in the growing preservation movement.  In Brookfield, Preservation Month - May 2008 - will  be observed by the Elmbrook Historical Society.

The Elmbrook area dates back to 1839.  When Brookfield Township was formed it consisted of 36 acres - of farmland and prairie.  The town of Brookfield is smaller than it was over 100 years ago, but it still exists.  Portions were assimilated into the city of Brookfield (1954) and village of Elm Grove (1955).

The Elmbrook Historical Society was formed in 1977 to preserve the 1843 Dousman Stagecoach Inn, once located on Watertown Plank Road and Bluemound Road.  The home is Brookfield's only preserved landmark on the National Historic Registry.    The grass roots effort that saved the Inn continues to support and maintain it.  Members share our area's rich history through:

• Guided tours (on the first and third Sunday afternoons) from May through October.
• Sponsoring the Civil War Re-enactment this weekend (May 3 and 4) from 10 am to 4 pm. Several homes in Brookfield date to the Civil War era.
• Hosting free lectures on historic topics, such as "Ten Chimneys & The Lunts." Join us May 19 at the Brookfield Park & Recreation Center at 7 pm.
• A Memorial Day ceremony at Brookfield's Oak Hill Cemetery (Brookfield Road north of Capitol). Many early settlers were buried there, including Nathan Hatch, a revolutionary war soldier.

These and other activities throughout the year help individuals understand the importance of history. Each family (whether dating back to early Brookfield, or not) is creating its own memories and traditions.  Gregory Filardo said, "...What greater homage to our native homelands could we pay than to preserve buildings in remembrance of our ancestry or roots?  As we reach for the stars let us not forget where we came from."

The historical society has also encouraged other historic preservation efforts - such as "Old St. Mary's Church" in Elm Grove. Once slated for demolition, the church is now home to Torke Wirth Pujara, an architectural firm.  It also appears that VK Development is sparing the Ruby family farm house and pony barn from demolition.

For more information about the Elmbrook Historical Society, visit http://www.elmbrookhistoricalsociety.org/ or telephone 262 782 4057.

The city of Brookfield does not have a historic preservation ordinance. 

On Monday, March 17, you have a chance to hear Tom Ramstack, the author of Brookfield: A Fine and Fertile Land, speak about the rich history of the Brookfield and Elm Grove areas.  Our area began as a farming community in 1839.

Tom grew up in Elm Grove and heard his father's stories about the people in the Brookfield Township.  His quest to learn more - and a desire to write a book - resulted in a twenty year search of historic records and a two-volume book.

The free lecture is sponsored by the Elmbrook Historical Society. It's at 7 pm at Brookfield's Park & Rec Senior Community Center, 2000 N. Calhoun Rd., Brookfield.  The meeting is open to the public. Copies of Brookfield: A Fine and Fertile Land will be available for purchase.  Ramstack will sign copies.

Call (262) 782-4057 for more information.

"How German is American" will be the topic of the Elmbrook Historical Society's next meeting that will be held on Monday, January 21, 2008 at 7:00 pm at the Brookfield Park and Recreation Community Center, 2000 N. Calhoun Road.

 Presented by Antje Petty, Assistant Director of the Max Kade Institute for German American Studies at the University of Wisconsin- Madison, this lecture will explore the many ways German speaking Europe has influenced the American cultural landscape. Using historic and modern images, Ms Petty will demonstrate how theses influences have affected various American groups through cultural interaction and assimilation. She will also address themes that are relevant today and apply to other cultural groups, not just German – Americans. 

Admission to this informative and thought provoking lecture is free. Refreshments will be served.. Be sure to mark your calendars and plan to attend this fascinating lecture that has been well received throughout the State of Wisconsin.

Call the Elmbrook Historical Society (262 782 4057) for more information. 

Each family builds its own traditions for the holiday.  Some are carried over from past generations and are cherished. Some are newly adopted.

This year, make time for "Christmas at the Inn" on December 1 and 2. The Dousman Stagecoach Inn, built in 1843, will be decorated for the 1840s holidays.  Inside, you'll find feather trees, an old-fashioned Christmas tree with handmade ornaments, a collection of precious baby dolls in vignettes, antique cooky cutters and more amid a fully furnished Stagecoach Inn.

Taste test some of Mrs. Brown's soup, cornbread and homemade baked items. Enjoy music of the recorder, dulcimer and guitar that fills the air. Especially for children are Father Christmas' stories and hands-on crafts. Adults may enjoy the bake sale (with jams and jellies) and a silent auction of gift baskets.

On Saturday, December 1 only:

• Holiday photos will be professionally taken in an antique sleigh. The sitting fee ($39.95) is a donation to the Elmbrook Historical Society and includes admission to "Christmas at the Inn."  Call Nancy Rubly, Portraits on Pilgrim, (262-860 0777) for an appointment.
• Stephen Parr's "Charles Dickens Reads" at 2 pm.
• The Rosewood Quartet (led by music teacher Dr. Denice Haney) will perform at 2:30 pm. The 8th grade Quartet members are also members Milwaukee Youth Symphony Orchestra. 

The Dousman Stagecoach Inn, at 1075 Pilgrim Parkway (between Bluemound and Gebhardt Rds.) is Brookfield's only building on the National Register of Historic Places.  It is cared for by the Elmbrook Historical Society a 501(c)(3) organization.

December 1 - 10 am to 4 pm.; December 2 - Noon to 4 pm.  $4 Adults, $1 Children (5 or older).  Onsite parking.

Call 262 786 2321 for more information or check www.ElmbrookHistoricalSociety.org.

 

Promotions for the holiday season are beginning earlier and earlier.  For many people it’s a frenzied and stressful time of year.  Planning ahead helps.  So mark your calendar for December 1 and 2 for something you will enjoy and solve some of your holiday needs. 

 

Take time to visit "Christmas at the Inn" at the Dousman Stagecoach Inn (Brookfield).  Open your eyes and enjoy a step back in time on December 1 and 2. But, before walking through the doors of the historic inn:

 

Just picture this.  Your family photograph in an antique sleigh.  Saturday, December 1^st only from 10 am to 4 pm. Schedule your appointment with   photographer Nancy Rubley (Portraits on Pilgrim) at  262 860-0777.  The $39.95 sitting fee is a donation to the Elmbrook Historical Society.  Print your own photo or order 25 holiday cards (and get 25 free) $19.95. Mention your photo sitting and get free admission to “Christmas at the Inn.”

 

Once inside, experience the joys of Christmas past. 

The sights of Christmas include cherished dolls displayed in vignettes, feather trees, antique toys (1850s to 1950), an old-fashioned Christmas tree, a display of cookie cutters and more throughout the Inn.

The sounds include music from the dulcimer, guitar and recorders and. On Sunday at 2 pm, “Charles Dickens” (Stephen Parr) will delight guests with his dramatic readings.

 

Father Christmas’ story-telling and hands on crafts will prove to be a child’s delight.

 

Enjoy the scents from the kitchen. Taste-test samples of the Mrs. Brown’s soup, juice, homemade cookies and sweet treats.  Then buy specially made cookies, breads and treats for your own family and friends.

“Shop” for that special someone.  A silent auction of gift baskets is waiting for you.

December 1 from 10 am to 4 pm.; December 2 from Noon to 4 pm. $4 Adults, $1 Children. Free parking. Call 262 782-4057 for more information. 

The Dousman Stagecoach Inn is at 1075 Pilgrim Parkway (between Bluemound and Gebhardt Rds), Brookfield.  Its caretakers are members of the Elmbrook Historical Society, a (501)(c)(3). 

It’s a hidden treasure in Brookfield – the Dousman Stagecoach Inn.  It was built in 1843, five years before Wisconsin became a state.  It once stood on the wood plank road that extended from Milwaukee to Watertown. 

 

During the stagecoach days, hundreds of travelers stayed at the Inn when making the 58 mile journey between Milwaukee to Watertown.

 

It’s on the National Register of Historic Places and is Brookfield’s only historic structure.

 

It was owned by the Behling family for nearly one hundred years.  Behling gave his home to the city of Brookfield when North Shore Bank bought the land. The city created a public park for the building. 

 

The city leases the home to the Elmbrook Historical Society.  The lease specifies that the Society is responsible for all costs associated with the building.  This included the substantial costs of moving the structure in 1981 and the cost of restoring the building to its days as a Stagecoach Inn. All traces of the 20^th century were removed from this historic treasure.

 

The society continues to maintain and care for the home.  Membership dues contribute to the expense of operating the home.  Most fund raising is accomplished through public and private tours, and events such as the Civil War Re-enactment (in May), Days Gone By (October) and Christmas at the Inn (December).

 

The Dousman Stagecoach Inn is in its 164^th year.  The original siding is decaying and requires complete restoration.  The cost exceeds $115,000.

 

The Elmbrook Historical Society, a (501) (c3) organization needs your help.  Please send your tax-deductible contribution to:   Elmbrook Historical Society; Capital Campaign; P.O. Box 292; Brookfield, WI 53008-0292

 

Help preserve this irreplaceable historic treasure.

The Packers play Sunday night, so your family (and you) have a whole day to enjoy Fall activities.

One event you shouldn't miss is "Days Gone By" at the Dousman Stagecoach Inn in Brookfield. The 1843 Greek Revival Inn once stood on the corner of what is now Bluemound and Pilgrim Parkway.  It's on the National Register of Historic Places.

There's fun inside the Inn:  A G-scale model train will extend the length of the Inn's ballroom.  Nearby there is a collection of children's antique toys, and photographs of early Brookfield.  While there, be sure to visit the bedrooms, the men's tap room, "ladies parlor," dining room and state-of-the-art kitchen. 

Children and adults can enjoy a one-room school.  Listen for the ringing of the old Woodside school bell.  Lessons will be taught by "schoolmarm" Jean Stackpole (Brookfield) at 10:30, 11:30, 1:30.   More lessons may be added.

Since it is now Fall, it's time to start thinking about winter.

Outside, our early settlers (Tom and Mary Ramstack) will be getting ready for Winter.  They'll need much "hands on" help from on-lookers.  You'll find an ice house nearby and you can even view antique carriages at the Smithy's Shoppe.  Listen to the banjo music (after 1 pm).

• Stop at the food stand
• Take part in 'hands on" activities
• Race with a "stuffed animal" - remember to bring your favorite
• Browse / shop at a tent full of antiques, collectibles, crafts and food products
• Find a pumpkin (from Simon's market) to take home.
• Take a chance on winning a handmade queen sized quilt

Sunday, October 7, from 10 am to 4 pm.  The address is 1075 Pilgrim Parkway (between Bluemound and Gebhardt Road). On-site parking.  $5 Adults, $3 Children (5 or over). 

Call 262 782 4057 for more information, or check www.ElmbrookHistoricalSociety.org.  

There are many signs of fall.  The school year started, tree leaves are turning color, there are fewer daylight hours, crisper nighttime temperatures and pumpkins. 

Another sure sign is Elmbrook Historical Society's "Days Gone By" on October 7.

Inside the Dousman Stagecoach Inn, learn about one-room schools from school-marm Jean Stackpole; tour the inn where many weary stagecoach travelers stayed over night; and admire the quilts on the beds.  In the ballroom, enjoy a G-scale model train that spans the ballroom, admire an exhibit of Children's Antique Toys (1860-1950) and see photographs of early Brookfield.

Outside, see (and help) early Brookfield settlers get ready for winter; visit and learn about ice houses; and visit the smoke house, toll booth, a Smithy's Shoppe (with carriages) and visitor's center. 

There will be hands-on crafts and activities for kids, and a "Stuffed Animal Race" for kids of all ages. (Bring your own stuffed animal.)

While on the grounds, buy a raffle ticket for a handmade start-patterned quilt, find something to eat, browse through a tent filled with crafts, food items, antiques & collectibles and choose a pumpkin.

It all takes place on the park-like grounds of the Dousman Stagecoach Inn, 1075 Pilgrim Parkway (between Bluemound and Gebhardt Roads) on October 7 from 10 am to 4 pm.  Admission $5 Adults, $3 Children (5 or over).  On site parking.

Call 262 782 4057 or check www.ElmbrookHistoricalSociety.org. 

 

  

 

Children under 16 can enter the Scarecrow Building Contest sponsored by the Elmbrook Historical Society. Frames and hay will be provided. Kids will provide the creativity and clothing. Register for the contest by September 10 . Call 262 782-4057.

The scarecrow contest is part of a day-long, fun-filled event celebrating Brookfield’s agrarian history on the grounds of the Dousman Stagecoach Inn).

Scarecrows need to be in place by 11 a.m., Sunday, September 17. Scarecrows will be judged at noon.

“Days Gone By” features antique farm tractors, Laura Ingalls Wilder stories and a one-room school room. A farm-hand lunch will be served from 11:30-1:30. The 1843 inn is at 1075 N. Pilgrim Parkway, (between Bluemound and Gebhardt Rds.) in Brookfield. The event runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $5 adults and $3 children.

Historical society members will be available September 16 so kids can assemble their scarecrows.

The 1843 Dousman Stagecoach Inn is Brookfield’s only National Historic Landmark. It is located at 1075 Pilgrim Parkway, midway between Bluemound and Gebhardt Roads. On June 24, the Elmbrook Historical Society celebrated its 25th Anniversary at the home’s current location.

John Behling, whose family lived in the home for nearly 100 years, gave the building to the Elmbrook Historical Society. It in turn, raised funds to move the building from the corner of Bluemound and Moorland Roads.

On June 20, an historic site in Elm Grove celebrated an open house. Built in the 1920s, “Old St. Mary’s Church” was nearly razed. A small group of people are responsible for saving the building. Newly restored, it is now home to Torke, Wirth, Pujara, Ltd.

There’s another property in Brookfield worthy of National Historic Landmark status - Ruby Farms. The farmhouse on Calhoun Road was built about 1860 by one of Brookfield’s early settlers, Jacob Ruby. According to the Historical Inventory of Brookfield, Ruby Farms' barn with cupola west of the house is one of the best in the Township. The farmhouse and the horse barn are important community landmarks.

The Ruby Farms property was sold to VK Development in 2005. Commercial development plans have not been publicly shared.

The city claims Calhoun Road needs to be widened to accommodate the anticipated freeway interchange. Although construction of the freeway interchange will not occur until at least 2010, the city government sees an imminent need to widen Calhoun next year.

As the first two examples show, historic buildings can be preserved. Vision is required. Does the widening of Calhoun Road – and the proposed development of sixty acres - need to result in another loss of a piece of our heritage?