The Manitowoc County Historical Society has completed one of its largest restoration projects ever.
The restoration of the historic Meeme House began when they purchased the house in 2012 before relocating it in 2017 in order for it to eventually become a part of the Pinecrest Village, which will officially happen this weekend.
The Meeme house will be debuted, restored to its former glory, during this weekend’s spring opening weekend at the Historical Society.
Executive Director Amy Meyer and the rest of the Historical Society welcomed partners, volunteers, and donors to the grand unveiling of the structure Sunday, where she explained to SeehaferNews.com how the structure came to be in 1847 .
“(It was) built by two brothers, Michael and Andreas,” she explained. “They were fresh immigrants, and they saw business opportunity along Green Bay Road, which now we know is Highway 42.”
The building featured several overnight rooms for lodging, a tavern on the first floor, a dry goods store, and a large ballroom and stage on its second floor.
It was also used as a voting location before a new poll house was built in 1900.
Other notable happenings of the time include hosting a Civil War rally, which saw volunteers walk to Manitowoc the next day to join the unit, as well as some other historical moments in the grand hall upstairs.
“We know this site was actually hosting political conventions, Dairymen Association meetings, and big-ticket balls and dances,” Meyer revealed.
Meyer called the grand unveiling a big day for everyone involved.
“Our Meeme House project started 12 years ago, and it has been quite the restoration journey, but we are now on the other side,” she said with a smile. “Doors are open and we’re excited for the public to see not only the historical significance that was restored in this structure, but the stories that we’re able to tell inside of it.”
The full history of this unique building can be discovered online at manitowoccountyhistory.org or by visiting the Pinecrest Historical Village in person.
More information is also available on the Bloomberg Connects app, which can be downloaded through the Apple App Store or Google Play.
