German Settlement Update Issue #4
In this Memorial Day Issue:
[1] Smokehouse-Bakery is Unique in Wisconsin & America
[2] History Buff Stuff
[3] Pathway Built to Pioneer John Peter Roehl Homestead
[4] Membership Perks: “Find Your Place in History, Then Go There!”
[5] Calendar of Events for 2007 Revised
[6] Points to Ponder
[7] Membership Open to All Friends of the German Settlement. This is your invitation…
* * *
[1] SMOKEHOUSE-BAKERY is UNIQUE in WISCONSIN & AMERICA
This unique multi-purpose limestone smokehouse-bakery is a one-of-a-kind building not seen anywhere else. The new owner wants it moved by mid-June. Funds are urgently needed for restoration and historical preservation for future generations.
We hope you can join us in the restoration with your talents and/or donations. Checks may be sent to our treasurer, Evonne Ganz. Her address is at the bottom of this newsletter. Please respond immediately so our board can decide feasibility of moving.
![]() |
![]() |
[2] HISTORY BUFF STUFF
Which one of the Schwalen pioneers went back to Prussia and brought back eight families as pioneers in 1852? Where is that pioneer’s farm located? Hint: The bakery -smokehouse was built by him in his back yard. Join our meetings and learn much more.
[3] PATHWAY BUILT TO PIONEER JOHN PETER. ROEHL HOMESTEAD
A limestone path and rail fence was built by a volunteer crew on May 4 and 5 in the Pioneer Grove Memorial Park in the German Settlement. Gravel was donated by Kernon Bast. A group photo appeared in the Hudson Star-Observer and the New Richmond News. Those workers not in the photo were Wally Riedel and Bob Freiermuth. A wiener roast picnic lunch was served by Barb Garbe and other volunteers. Our Spring Meeting was enjoyed as we sat around on logs in the Pioneer Grove. More volunteers are needed as we make historic markers, and restore the smokehouse and community bakery.
[4] MEMBERSHIP PERKS: “Find Your Place in History, Then Go There!”
One of the rewards of membership in the German Settlement Heritage Society comes through being an Affiliate of the Wisconsin Historical Society. Through the WHS we are affiliated with sister historical societies all over the state.
During the month of June GSHS adult members may use the coupon below for a 20% discount when you visit the well-preserved historical sites mentioned on the coupon.
![]() |
As a proof of your affiliation, at the ticket counter, bring this newsletter with you. Your membership card would also help. This coupon is just one of the perks for joining GSHS. Have a great Memorial Day celebration and summer.
[5] CALENDAR of EVENTS for 2007 Revised
June 1-30 Find Your Place in History and Go There, Use WHS Coupon
Oct. 2 (Tue.) at 6:30 p.m. GSHSI Board of Directors meet
Oct. 6 (Sat.) 9 to 11 Final setup for Barn Dance at Mike & Evonne Ganz farm
“ “ “ 11 to 12 General Fall Meeting and old-fashion lunch
“ “ “ 6:30 to 11 p.m. Historical display followed by BARN DANCE
Bring your GSHS Membership Cards for discounts.
[6] POINTS TO PONDER
“The cure for boredom is curiosity. There is no cure for curiosity.” — Dorothy Parker,
“Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful.” – Albert Schweitzer
[7] MEMBERSHIP OPEN to ALL FRIENDS of the GERMAN SETTLEMENT
We are accepting new members for this year. Dues and donations are needed for renovation of the Pioneer Grove and Smokehouse-bakery before they are lost.
THIS IS YOUR INVITATION…
To all interested in preserving German Settlement history to join GSHS now. Please fill out and send to our Treasurer, Evonne Ganz at the address below. Donations are tax deductable.
——————————————————————————————————-
German Settlement Heritage Society, Inc. Charter Membership Form
Name: _________________________ Spouse’s Name: _________________________
Address: _______________________ City: _____________ State: ___ Zip: ________
Email: ______________________ Phone(s): ________________ _________________
Please consider giving a gift for Charter Membership.
This is a gift membership from: Name & Address: ______________________________
Check a category: [ ] Student $5, [ ] Senior $10, [ ] Individual or Senior Couple $15,
[ ] Household $25, [ ] Contributor $30, [ ] Supporter $50, [ ] Benefactor $100,
[ ] Lifetime Member $500, [ ] Corporate Member $1000+ [ ] Preservation donor $___
Note: Tax Exempt under Internal Revenue Code 501(c)(3) for a nonprofit organization
Please make checks payable to: German Settlement Heritage Society, Inc. & send to:
Evonne Ganz
565 County Rd. U.
Hudson, WI 54016